Plizio Visual Lab
Barrouallie Petroglyphs
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
ruins
The Barrouallie Petroglyphs are a significant archaeological heritage site on the western coast of Saint Vincent, offering deep insights into the island's pre-Columbian era. These rock carvings are attributed to the Kalinago or earlier indigenous peoples and are located on a massive volcanic boulder near the fishing village of Barrouallie. The depictions show complex anthropomorphic faces and geometric patterns, likely used for religious rituals or as territorial markers. Researchers date these artworks to between 500 and 1000 AD, long before European explorers reached the Caribbean. Despite centuries of exposure to tropical rain and sun, the lines incised into the hard basalt stone are still clearly visible. Today, they constitute a protected national monument and serve as a vital link to the indigenous identity of the region. The preservation of this fragile site is a priority for local historians, aiming to raise cultural awareness of the island's first inhabitants through educational tourism.
- Location: St. Vincent & Grenadines
- Top sights: Barrouallie · Saint Patrick Parish, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines · Cumberland River (St. Vincent)
- Nearby: Chateaubelair (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 27 | 15 | 20 | 21 | 41 | 68 | 74 | 88 | 88 | 107 | 89 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Barrouallie Petroglyphs, also known as Glebe Rock, are accessible outdoors and can be viewed without restrictions. It is an open archaeological site.
Typical hours
As an open-air site with no official hours, it is accessible anytime during daylight. Visiting in daytime is recommended to appreciate the anthropomorphic figures' details.
Photography
Photography is allowed, but avoid touching the rock art directly. Use a telephoto lens for close-ups without interfering with the surface.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, depending on interest in the carvings. The site is small, but the intricate figures encourage a closer look.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby village of Barrouallie. Other petroglyph sites in the area can also be visited together.
Getting there
The petroglyphs are located along the coastal road, with a small parking area nearby. They are easily accessible by car or taxi.
Insider tip
Walk carefully on the rocky terrain and wear sturdy shoes. Bring water as there are no drink vendors nearby.
Geography
Facts
- The petroglyphs were carved into a large boulder of black basalt.
- Archaeologists estimate their age to be over 1,000 years old.
- They are located only a few hundred meters from the coastline.
- The most common motifs are stylized faces with large eye sockets.
- The site was added to the national monument register in 1990.
- Similar carvings can also be found on the neighboring islands of Grenada and St. Lucia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Barrouallie Petroglyphs (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Barrouallie Petroglyphs?
They are an important testament to early pre-Columbian cultures.
How are they protected?
They are outdoors and exposed to the elements.
Can you visit the place without a guide?
Yes, but a guide helps in finding the details.
Is a reservation necessary?
No, the place is publicly accessible.
What should one bring when visiting?
Sunscreen and water, as there is little shade.
Barrouallie Petroglyphs: where is it located?
Barrouallie Petroglyphs is located in St. Vincent & Grenadines.
Barrouallie Petroglyphs: what is there to see?
Highlights include Barrouallie, Saint Patrick Parish, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Cumberland River (St. Vincent).
Barrouallie Petroglyphs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Barrouallie Petroglyphs: why is it worth visiting?
The Barrouallie Petroglyphs are a significant archaeological heritage site on the western coast of Saint Vincent, offering deep insights into the island's pre-Columbian era.
Nearby cities
Kingstown
Kingstown is the capital and chief port of Saint Vincent.
Calliaqua
Calliaqua is located on the southern coast of Saint Vincent.
🗺️
Byera Hill
Byera Hill is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Biabou
Biabou is a settlement on the eastern coast of Saint Vincent.
Barrouallie Fisheries Complex
A significant coastal hub for the national fishing industry.
Barrouallie
Barrouallie is a coastal town on the western side of Saint Vincent.
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth is the main settlement on the island of Bequia.
Derrick
Derrick is a small settlement in the south of Bequia island.
Chateaubelair
Chateaubelair is the northernmost town on the leeward coast of Saint Vincent.
Dovers
Dovers is a small settlement on the exclusive island of Mustique.
Layou
Layou is situated north of Kingstown on the western coast.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Wallilabou Bay
A natural harbor on the leeward coast surrounded by steep volcanic cliffs.
🗺️
Wallilabou Estate
Wallilabou Estate is a historic plantation site that features ruins of an 18th-century sugar mill.
🗺️
Byahaut Bay
A secluded coastal area accessible only by water, featuring crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Cumberland Bay
A deep coastal bay known for its black volcanic sand and coconut groves.
Victoria Park
This historic sports ground was named in 1887 in honor of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
Kingstown Central Market
The largest trading hub for local farmers and vendors.
Nature
Layou River
A major river on the leeward side of the island that creates a large alluvial plain near the coast.
Dark View Nature Area
A protected area featuring spectacular twin waterfalls and an intact river ecosystem.
Mount St. Andrew
A peak rising 735 meters above Kingstown, offering panoramic views of the Grenadines.
Vermont Nature Trail
This reserve protects the habitat of the rare St.
More places
🗺️
Wallilabou Nature Park
A coastal park with waterfalls and lush vegetation, which also served as a filming location for Hollywood movies.
Layou Petroglyphs
The Layou Petroglyphs consist of ancient rock carvings created by pre-Columbian inhabitants.
Layou Petroglyph
These pre-Columbian rock carvings likely date back to the Carib people.
Buccament Rock Art
The Buccament Rock Art site features petroglyphs carved into a cliff face.
Buccament Valley
A broad valley on the southwest coast through which the Buccament River flows.
Lowmans Bay Power Plant
The island's largest thermal power plant ensuring electricity supply.
Cumberland Valley
Cumberland Valley in the west of the island is a deep relief depression shaped by the Cumberland River.
Camden Park Industrial Estate
An industrial zone for manufacturing and warehousing west of the capital.