Fountain Cavern National Park, Scrub Island Travel Guide

Fountain Cavern National Park, located near Shoal Bay in northeastern Anguilla, is a window into the island's rich Amerindian heritage. Designated as a national park in 1985, the site protects Fountain Cavern, the most important pre-Columbian ceremonial location in the Eastern Caribbean.The cavern descends approximately 50 feet below ground, revealing a two-chambered limestone cave. A freshwater pool reflects light filtering through the entrance, once vital to the indigenous Amerindians. The walls display over 33 ancient petroglyphs and rock carvings, offering insights into the beliefs and artistic skills of Anguilla's early inhabitants. The oldest known and longest-used ceremonial cave site in the entire Caribbean, archeological evidence suggests that the site was used for ritual purposes from around A.D. 400 to at least A.D. 1200.The centerpiece is a 14-foot stalagmite, carved to represent Jocahu (also known as Yucahú), the supreme deity of the Taino people, also known as the “Lord of the Yuca”, a spirit of fertility. This statue was a focal point for indigenous ceremonies, highlighting the cavern's sacred importance. Guided tours provide insights into the site's history, cultural significance, and geological formations. The Anguilla Amerindian Interpretation Centre enhances the experience, offering a deeper understanding of the Taino people and their way of life.