Facts About Douglas
The Isle of Man’s capital and largest town is Douglas with an estimated population of about 28,000, which serves as the island’s commercial and cultural hub.
The town of Douglas is home to numerous historic structures and landmarks that date all the way back to the Viking era.
One of the most renowned and prestigious motorcycle racing competitions in the world, the Isle of Man TT motorcycle races, are held on a course that travels through the streets of Douglas and the surrounding countryside.
One of the major offshore financial centres in the world, Douglas is a significant hub for finance, e-commerce, shipping, and tourism.
The Manx Museum, the Isle of Man Steam Railway, and the Gaiety Theatre are just a few of the many sights and things to do in the town.
The town was the birthplace of the Bee Gees’ Maurice, Robin, and Barry Gibb.
On May 20, 2022, it was revealed that Douglas would be granted city status by Letters Patent later that year as part of the Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours.
Douglas is twice referred to in the monastic Chronicle of the Kings of Man and the Isles: first in 1190, when the monks of St Mary’s Abbey at Rushen were transferred there for a four-year stay; then again in 1313, when Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland, spent the night at the “monastery of Duglas” on his way to seize Castle Rushen.
The town’s name, “Duboglassio,” which means “black river” in Early Celtic, is where scholars generally agree that it originated.
The town’s harbor and primary commercial port are both a part of the River Douglas.