Mysterious Petroglyphs of Moho Ravine

Moho Ravine also known as Paradise Ravine, is home to one of St. Martin’s most mysterious and recently discovered archaeological treasures: a set of petroglyphs.

These carvings were uncovered in the early 1980s, and they add a new dimension to our understanding of the island’s pre-Columbian culture. The petroglyphs at Moho Ravine include anthropomorphic figures, geometric patterns, and other stylized designs, which were created by rubbing the surface of the soft calcite patina on the rocks with sharp stones.

This method of engraving suggests that the images held significant meaning, possibly linked to spiritual or communal practices.

The discovery of these petroglyphs has been largely credited to local archaeologists and researchers like René Catinau, who explored the French part of the island. Their findings have contributed to a growing body of evidence that St. Martin was home to a vibrant and complex society with rich symbolic traditions.

The petroglyphs at Moho Ravine are not only significant for their artistic value but also for what they reveal about the interactions between the island’s early inhabitants and their environment. The site continues to be an important location for ongoing archaeological research, offering potential clues about the island’s ancient cultures.

References: Catinau, R. (1987). Petroglyph Discoveries on St. Martin. Versteeg, A.H. (1987). New Findings at Muho Spring.