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Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury
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The Archaeological Site of Mont Grand Matoury is one of the most significant locations for studying pre-Columbian civilizations on the coast of French Guiana. Located at the summit of Mont Grand Matoury, the highest elevation near Cayenne, archaeologists have discovered remains of 'montagnes couronnées' (crowned mountains). These are man-made earthworks, including circular ditches and embankments, strategically constructed by indigenous peoples between the 10th and 15th centuries AD to fortify settlements or define ceremonial spaces. Such structures demonstrate a sophisticated level of landscape engineering and social organization. In addition to the earthworks, numerous pottery fragments and stone tools have been recovered, providing insights into the daily lives and agricultural practices of the ancient inhabitants. The mountain location offered both defensive advantages and protection from the seasonal flooding of the surrounding coastal plains. Today, the site is part of a protected nature reserve, representing a unique intersection of biodiversity conservation and the preservation of ancient cultural heritage.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Mont Grand Matoury · Mont Fortuné · Réserve naturelle du Mont Grand Matoury
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (31 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 300 | 264 | 251 | 369 | 504 | 334 | 217 | 109 | 54 | 58 | 110 | 303 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Mont Grand Matoury is an archaeological site in a nature reserve, viewable from the outside. The remains of an Amerindian settlement are accessible along hiking trails.
Typical hours
The nature reserve usually has no fixed opening hours; the trails are accessible during daytime. It's recommended to visit the site only in daylight.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the reserve. The view from Mount Matoury's summit and the archaeological traces offer worthwhile subjects.
Time needed
A hike to the archaeological sites and the summit takes about one to two hours. Allow plenty of time for nature observation.
Combine with
Mont Grand Matoury is on the outskirts of Cayenne, so it can be combined with a city visit. The Montsinéry-Tonnégrande nature reserve is also nearby.
Getting there
The parking lot is on Route de Mont Grand Matoury, reachable from Cayenne in 20 minutes by car. Marked hiking trails lead to the summit and archaeological spots.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy shoes as the trails are partly slippery and uneven. Bring water and a snack - there are no facilities on site.
Geography
Facts
- Mont Grand Matoury is the highest point in the Cayenne area at 234 meters.
- The 'crowned mountains' feature artificial ditches used for defense.
- Excavations have uncovered pottery dating back over 800 years.
- The site shows evidence of permanent indigenous settlements on the heights.
- Strategic positioning allowed inhabitants to avoid coastal flooding.
- It is currently part of a 2,123-hectare protected nature reserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What kind of site is this?
It is a pre-Columbian site featuring 'Polissoirs' (grinding stones) used by indigenous people.
Where is Mont Grand Matoury located?
It is located south of Cayenne within the Matoury nature reserve.
Can you go hiking there?
Yes, there are marked hiking trails leading through the rainforest to the archaeological site.
What are Polissoirs?
Grooves in rocks used by indigenous people for grinding stone tools and weapons.
Are there wild animals there?
Yes, the reserve is home to many birds, monkeys, and sloths, which can be spotted with some luck.
Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury: where is it located?
Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury is located in French Guiana.
Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mont Grand Matoury, Mont Fortuné, Réserve naturelle du Mont Grand Matoury.
Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury: why is it worth visiting?
The Archaeological Site of Mont Grand Matoury is one of the most significant locations for studying pre-Columbian civilizations on the coast of French Guiana.
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