Preservation of Maho Beach Caves

The Maho Beach Caves, located beneath Burgeaux Bay near Maho Beach, represent one of St. Martin’s most significant yet endangered archaeological sites.

These caves were discovered during construction work in the 1980s, revealing a wealth of pre-Columbian artifacts, including petroglyphs, figurines, and ceremonial objects. However, the preservation of this site has been severely challenged by modern development and insufficient protective measures.

Eyewitness accounts, including those from Roland Richardson, reported that the discovery of these caves was followed by the destruction of much of the site due to construction activities, including the use of explosives. This resulted in the loss of irreplaceable cultural heritage, as many of the artifacts were either destroyed or removed, with some ending up in private collections, possibly even abroad.

The Maho Beach Caves highlight the ongoing conflict between development and heritage preservation on St. Martin. Despite the destruction, the site remains crucial for understanding the island’s pre-Columbian past, particularly in terms of religious and ceremonial practices.

The petroglyphs and other artifacts found here offer unique insights into the spiritual life of the island’s early inhabitants. There is a pressing need for stronger preservation efforts to protect what remains of the Maho Beach Caves and other archaeological sites on the island. This includes legal protections, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration between developers and archaeologists to ensure that future discoveries are safeguarded for posterity.

References: Richardson, R. (1986). The Petroglyphs of St. Martin: An Inventory and Analysis. Douglass, W.B. (1986). Stone Sculpture of the Caribbean.