Archaeological Sites in the Caribbean

The Archaeological Landscape of the First Coffee Plantations in Southeast Cuba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's role in the global coffee trade during the 19th century. Situated in the lush foothills of the Sierra Maestra, this landscape preserves the remnants of a once-thriving coffee industry, showcasing the social, economic, and cultural dynamics that defined the era.

Nestled in the southwestern corner of the Caribbean island of Trinidad lies a remarkable archaeological site known as Banwari Trace. This ancient Archaic-period settlement, dating back over 7,000 years, represents the oldest known human occupation in the West Indies, offering a rare glimpse into the lives and lifeways of some of the region's earliest inhabitants. Perhaps the most significant discovery at Banwari Trace was unearthing a remarkably well-preserved human skeleton, now known as "Banwari Man."

Nestled along the picturesque southern coast of Antigua, English Harbour and Nelson's Dockyard form a historical maritime enclave that resonates with the echoes of colonial endeavors, naval supremacy, and the legacy of Admiral Horatio Nelson. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing both natural and artificial marvels, stands as a testament to Antigua's strategic importance and the naval prowess of the British Empire.

La Isabela, located on the east bank of the Bajabonico River in the Dominican Republic, represents a significant chapter in European colonization in the New World. As the first intentional European colonial town in America, it marks the beginning of a new era. Discovered in the mid-20th century, the ruins now form a National Historical and Archaeological Park, showcasing the remnants of Christopher Columbus's house, a church, and a graveyard.

Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve are located on the island of Saint Croix. The protected area preserves upland watersheds, mangrove forests and marine environments. It also contains the only known site where a Columbus expedition set foot on what is now U.S. territory.