Abri Patate, abri au Moule (Guadeloupe)
Abri Patate is an archaeological shelter in Le Moule, Guadeloupe, with a semi-circular platform roughly 6 meters across and a partially collapsed vault overhead. The site sits about 500 meters from the ocean at an elevation of about 35 meters.
The shelter was discovered in 2003 by archaeologist Christian Stouvenot and holds petroglyphs from the Late Ceramic Age between 900 and 1400 CE. This long timespan shows that people used this site for many centuries.
The rock face holds fourteen anthropomorphic petroglyphs carved into natural mineral formations, showing faces with eyes, mouths, and sometimes noses. These carvings tell us how the early inhabitants expressed themselves artistically in this place.
The dense vegetation surrounding the site calls for careful footing and sturdy shoes are a good idea. Finding the exact location takes some effort, so asking locals for directions before you visit is worth your time.
Natural water collection basins carved into the rock suggest this spot was vital for early Amerindian peoples in this dry region. The water gathered in these stone pools made the site a valuable refuge during times of scarcity.
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