Unveiling the Secrets of Ravine Careta, St. Martin

Secrets of Ravine Careta

Ravine Careta, identified as site SM. 18 during the archaeological reconnaissance of St. Martin between 1979 and 1981 by M.P. Sypkens Smit and A.H. Versteeg, is a notable site that offers insights into the pre-Columbian history of the island. This site, located in a stony ghaut (a steep-sided ravine), was the focus of test-pit excavations that yielded a variety of artifacts, suggesting its potential role as a settlement area.

The most significant find at Ravine Careta was a large diorite axe, measuring 26 cm, which was discovered along with two hammerstones. These tools indicate that the site may have been used for processing materials or crafting implements. Additionally, pottery sherds, flint fragments, and shell pieces were found scattered on the surface, although the quantity of these finds was relatively low, making it difficult to definitively conclude the site’s primary function.

The qualitative nature of the artifacts suggests that Ravine Careta may have served as a temporary or seasonal settlement site, where specific activities such as tool production or food processing took place. However, the limited amount of material recovered leaves some uncertainty regarding the full scope of the site’s use in pre-Columbian times.

References: Sypkens Smit, M.P., Versteeg, A.H. (1982). Preliminary Report on the Archaeology of St. Martin.