Tomb of the Caribbean Memorial

What is the tomb of the Caribbean in Martinique?

You have probably passed by it during your walks in the north, along the road leading to Le Prêcheur, without ever really paying attention to it. But what is this tomb doing in this specific place? And who were the famous Caribs it clearly pays homage to?

Let's discover it together!

Who Were the Caribs?

The Caribs were actually the first inhabitants of Martinique! This indigenous Amerindian people lived peacefully on the island. Also known as Kalinago, Karibs, and Caribs, they originated from northern Venezuela and had migrated to the Caribbean islands as early as the 9th century. The name "Caribs" stuck because that's what the French called them after their arrival on the island and in the New World, long after.

This polytheistic people had a deep connection with nature and knew how to listen to it. They primarily subsisted on cassava. They fished and foraged for survival and engaged in trade. This marked the beginning of a more settled lifestyle for them! They were also known for their craftsmanship, especially in the field of basketry. This skill allowed them to store food, among other things.

They were also very ahead of their time, and women were highly respected and had important roles to play within society, both in terms of child education and the agricultural aspects of the community.

The contact with Europeans was the point of no return that unfortunately led to the demise of this people in the 17th century.

They were initially wooed with gifts and promises by Westerners so that the latter could settle and expand on the territory.

Thinking themselves strong enough and in greater numbers, the people accepted. But once well-established, the colonists took control of the island. Two choices then faced the indigenous people: leave the island or accept the sovereignty of France.

The establishment of slavery led to war and genocide, as well as the arrival of diseases to which the population gradually succumbed.

What is the purpose of the Memorial of the Caribbean Tomb?

This tomb was erected because, according to legend (it is unfortunately impossible to verify the accuracy of the events recounted), it is said to be the last place where the last Caribs of Martinique were present. These Caribs, refusing to submit to the slavery imposed by the French colonists, are said to have committed suicide by jumping off the cliff.

They chose to take their own lives rather than lose their freedom and the life they had known. Before their death, the chief of the Caribs uttered these last words: "The mountain of fire will avenge me," referring to the Montagne Pelée, which it would indeed do in a certain way with the eruption of 1902.

The memorial consists of 34 totems sculpted by the artist Chantal Hippocrate, placed all around a pure white rock. Their number is not insignificant: each of them represents one of the 34 municipalities on the island.

Finally, the totems also bear inscriptions: dedications and poems to pay tribute to the victims of this genocide. One inscription for each municipality. For example, for Le Prêcheur, it reads: "my truths, suffering is real, joys are fleeting," and for Saint-Pierre, it reads: "future, the future feeds on the present of my past."

If you are curious to know what dedication has been written for your municipality, why not take a tour and pay your respects at this meaningful place?

For more information about the Memorial of Saint Pierre

The Memorial is located at Morne des Sauveurs in Saint-Pierre, on the road leading to Le Prêcheur. The place is accessible free of charge and open 24/7, although it's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the location and admire the totems.