Abri Patate, abri au Moule (Guadeloupe)
Abri Patate is a registered historic monument in Le Moule, Guadeloupe, consisting of a natural rock shelter with a semi-circular platform and a partially collapsed stone vault. The site sits on a small rise close to the Atlantic coast and contains petroglyphs carved into the rock face.
The shelter was found in 2003 by archaeologist Christian Stouvenot and holds carvings from the Late Ceramic Age, made between the 9th and 14th centuries. The span of use across several centuries shows that the site held importance for the local Amerindian population over a long period.
The rock face at this shelter holds fourteen carved figures showing human faces with eyes, mouths, and sometimes noses. Petroglyphs like these are rare in Guadeloupe, making this one of the few places on the island where pre-Columbian rock art can be seen directly on the stone.
Solid shoes are a good idea given the dense vegetation and uneven ground around the site. The path is not marked, so asking locals for directions before heading out will save time and effort.
The rock floor has natural basins that collected rainwater, which would have been a practical resource in this dry part of the island. This water supply likely explains why people returned to this spot over so many generations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
