Engraved rocks of the Marouini creek

Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The engraved Rocks of the Marouini creek form a remarkable archaeological site in the commune of Maripasoula, French Guiana. This historic monument, inscribed by ministerial decree on 24 August 1995, is distinguished by its rock engravings depicting animals (birds, monkeys, fish) as well as anthropomorphic figures. The main rock of the site was identified in 1948, revealing a pre-Columbian or Amerindian cultural and artistic heritage, although its precise dating remains unknown in the available sources.

The location of the site, near the cove du Marouini, suggests a close link with the indigenous communities of the region, for whom these engravings could have symbolic, ritual or narrative meaning. Registration for historic monuments underscores its heritage importance, although details of its original use or exact cultural context remain partially documented. The site is now protected, including the engraved rocks and their plated terrain, as evidenced by the cadastral coordinates mentioned in the official archives.

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