The footprint of the first peoples : Native Americans in Guadeloupe

The first inhabitants of Guadeloupe

The first identified inhabitants were the Ciboneys, present between 4000 and 3000 BCE. These pre-ceramic peoples lived by fishing and gathering, without the use of pottery, but they mastered the polishing of stone and bone. Remains of their presence have been discovered in Martinique and Guadeloupe, notably at the “Morel Zéro” site in Le Moule, dated to around 1500 BCE.

Later, between 500 and 200 BCE, Huecoid populations, originating from the Orinoco region (now Venezuela), migrated to the Lesser Antilles. These groups, also known as Arawaks, were sedentary, practiced agriculture—particularly cassava cultivation—and were skilled potters. Their presence is confirmed at several sites in Guadeloupe, such as Morel in Le Moule and Anse à la Gourde in Saint-François.

The Arawaks were among the first known peoples to settle in Guadeloupe. They arrived around 300 BCE.

A semi-sedentary society, they lived primarily from agriculture, fishing, and gathering. Cassava, which they cultivated and processed into flatbreads, was a staple in their diet. Their villages were organized around large circular dwellings called bohíos, made of wood and palm leaves, reflecting a coherent social structure. The Arawaks used tools crafted from shells, stone, or wood, demonstrating their adaptation to island life. Their spiritual culture was rich, centering on the worship of deities called zemis, often represented by small stone or wooden sculptures. Their craftsmanship—including finely decorated pottery and shell jewelry—revealed an advanced aesthetic sense and remarkable skill. In harmony with nature, the Arawaks practiced sustainable use of marine resources and eco-friendly agriculture, illustrating a deeply respectful relationship with their environment.

The Kalinagos: the Caribs

Around the 8th century, the Kalinagos, also known as the Caribs, migrated from northern Venezuela to the Lesser Antilles, including Guadeloupe. They gradually displaced the Arawaks and imposed their own culture.

Fearsome warriors and skilled navigators, they excelled in building canoes called karbay, which allowed them to travel quickly between islands. In addition to their maritime abilities, they practiced subsistence farming, growing yams, sweet potatoes, and hot peppers. Their society was heavily war-oriented: men focused on hunting and warfare, while women—sometimes captured during raids—handled agriculture and domestic tasks. The Kalinagos possessed formidable weapons, such as bows and poisoned arrows, which they used fiercely to defend their territories. Their spirituality gave central importance to nature spirits and invisible forces. Rituals, performed before battles or sea expeditions, aimed to gain protection from these entities and boost communal courage and unity.

The arrival of Europeans and the decline of Amerindian peoples

On November 4, 1493, during his second voyage, Christopher Columbus landed in Guadeloupe at a place called Sainte-Marie. He named the island Santa Maria de Guadalupe de Estremadura, after a Spanish monastery of the same name.

When Columbus arrived, he encountered Kalinago villages, whose inhabitants he labeled as "cannibals." This reputation—largely exaggerated by Europeans—was based on ritual practices meant to absorb the strength of defeated enemies, and it served as a pretext to justify colonial conquests. Starting in the 17th century, the massive arrival of Europeans deeply disrupted the way of life of the Amerindian peoples. Armed conflicts over land, the introduction of European diseases such as smallpox and measles—against which the locals had no immunity—and the forced deportation of survivors to serve as labor, drastically reduced the Amerindian population. Subjected to violence, epidemics, and slavery, they disappeared as distinct peoples from the Caribbean region.

Despite this initial encounter, the Spanish did not establish lasting settlements on the island, largely due to Kalinago resistance. It wasn’t until 1635 that the French, under Pierre Belain d’Esnambuc, began colonizing Guadeloupe.

French colonization led to violent conflicts with the native populations, especially after the murder of the Kalinago chief Yance and his son at Rivière Sens by Charles Liénard de L’Olive. He targeted the southern tribes, whom he described as savages, with the intent of taking their women and stealing their land. This triggered a five-year war. These clashes, combined with disease and famine, drastically reduced the Kalinago population. The war ended in 1660 with the signing of the Franco-Anglo-Carib Treaty, through which the Kalinagos ceded most of their territory to the French.

The Kalinago heritage in Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is home to many emblematic sites that bear witness to the rich cultural and historical legacy of the Kalinagos, the island's first inhabitants. These natural and heritage sites offer an immersive journey into the archipelago's pre-Columbian past.

Although the Amerindian presence was brutally interrupted, their legacy remains visible in Guadeloupean culture. Place names like Karukera (“island of beautiful waters”), Goyave, and Deshaies come from Indigenous languages, preserving the memory of these first peoples. Words of Amerindian origin still in use today include ajoupa, hammock, and cassava. In cuisine, the use of cassava and certain cooking methods, like smoking (boucanage), reflect their enduring gastronomic traditions.

Passage des Marches (Basse-Terre)

Located in the heart of Basse-Terre, Passage des Marches is a small alley recently transformed into an artistic tribute to the Kalinagos. The risers of the staircase feature a mosaic mural created by ceramist Henri Hilaire and local youth, depicting Amerindian symbols and scenes of Kalinago life. This project honors the history of the island’s first peoples while beautifying the city’s urban heritage. Included in a discovery trail, it’s a must-see for lovers of art and history.

Archaeological Park of Les Roches Gravées (Trois-Rivières)

The Les Roches Gravées Park offers a fascinating glimpse into Kalinago culture. Set in a beautiful natural environment, it features dozens of petroglyphs carved into stone by Amerindians. These engravings, representing symbolic and religious motifs, provide insight into their beliefs and way of life. Guided tours are available to help interpret these ancient artworks.

Kalinago Waterfall (Vieux-Habitants)

Tucked within lush forest, this waterfall is reached via a short hike. The site is famous for its engraved rocks, providing a direct link to Amerindian heritage. The natural beauty of the location combined with its historical richness makes this a favorite destination for nature and history lovers.

Edgar-Clerc Museum (Le Moule)

This archaeological museum is a true treasure trove for exploring pre-Columbian culture. It houses an impressive collection of Amerindian artifacts, including pottery, tools, and ornaments. A visit to the Edgar-Clerc Museum offers deep insight into the daily life and craftsmanship of the Kalinagos.

Pointe des Châteaux (Saint-François)

Known for its dramatic landscapes, the Pointe des Châteaux was also once a site of Amerindian settlement. This mystical spot—where land meets ocean—invites reflection on Guadeloupe’s ancient roots.

Yance Commemoration (Vieux-Fort)

Every year, ceremonies are held in Vieux-Fort to honor Yance, a Kalinago chief murdered on January 26, 1636. This event keeps alive the memory of the Kalinago people and their resistance to colonization.

Practical tips

These sites serve as gateways to a distant and captivating past. They offer opportunities to understand the Kalinagos’ stories, spirituality, and relationship with the environment. By visiting them, travelers help recognize and preserve this unique heritage.

To make the most of your visit, plan outings based on weather and peak times. The Les Roches Gravées Park is best visited in the morning to avoid the heat; wear sturdy shoes as trails may be slippery. The Edgar-Clerc Museum is open year-round, though visiting outside of school holidays offers a quieter experience. Bring water, a hat, and a camera to capture the sites and surroundings. Keep in mind that accessibility varies: the Archaeological Park has uneven paths, not ideal for those with reduced mobility, while the Edgar-Clerc Museum is equipped with ramps and modern facilities.

FAQ

What was the lifestyle of Amerindians in Guadeloupe ? They lived by farming (cassava, yam), fishing, and gathering. Their villages were centered around wood-and-straw huts.

Why are the petroglyphs important ? They represent spiritual and mystical aspects of Amerindian culture, reflecting their beliefs and worldview

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Can traces of Amerindian culture still be found today ? Yes, certain farming practices, traditional dishes like cassava, and place names (e.g., Karukera) come from Amerindian heritage.

Are there any festivals or events celebrating this heritage ? Yes, thematic days are sometimes held in museums and parks to highlight Amerindian heritage.

Things to do nearby

• Hike to La Soufrière (15 km, 25 min by car from Trois-Rivières): An immersive experience in Guadeloupe’s nature.
• Grande Anse Beach in Deshaies (35 km, 45 min by car from Trois-Rivières): Ideal for relaxing after a historical visit.
• Basse-Terre Market (10 km, 15 min by car from Trois-Rivières): Perfect for discovering local products.
• Carbet Falls (25 km, 40 min by car from Trois-Rivières): A spectacular nature getaway.