L’Escalier Tête Chien
L’Escalier Tete Chien, also known as the “Staircase of the Great Serpent”, is a notable geological feature located in the village of La Plaine on Dominica’s East Coast. This natural staircase descends along a cliff face, leading directly into the Atlantic Ocean. It is famed for its striking basalt columns, reminiscent of organ pipes, and its mythological background linking it to Kalinago/Carib legends.
L’Escalier Tete Chien Geological Significance
L’Escalier Tete Chien is formed from volcanic activity, characteristic of Dominica’s rugged terrain, which includes other geological wonders like Boiling Lake and Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The crystalline volcanic rock formed a spectacular staircase out of the ocean and is one of the most fascinating attractions in the Kalinago Territory. The rock formation extends 200 feet like a serpent from the ocean floor to the shores. Just a short hike from this spot is the Madjini Pool where Kalinago legend says a mermaid lives.
Ecological Impact
The area around L’Escalier Tete Chien is rich in biodiversity, featuring a variety of endemic species of flora and fauna. This makes it an important site for conservation efforts and ecological studies within Dominica.
Cultural and Historical Context
The name ‘L’Escalier Tete Chien’ is derived from a local legend that suggests a spirit dog carved the staircase to protect the island’s inhabitants. This legend is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Kalinago Barana Aute, reflecting the rich oral traditions of the Kalinago people who were the island’s original inhabitants.
Tourism and Accessibility
As a tourist attraction, L’Escalier Tete Chien offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and adventurous hiking. It is promoted as part of eco-tourism initiatives in Dominica, attracting visitors interested in the island’s natural landscapes and indigenous cultures.
Preservation Initiatives
Due to its ecological and geological significance, efforts to preserve L’Escalier Tete Chien are crucial. These efforts are supported by both local and international environmental organizations, which aim to maintain the site’s natural beauty and ecological health while also respecting and preserving its cultural significance.
L’Escalier Tete Chien is a testament to Dominica’s geological diversity and deep cultural roots. It serves as a reminder of the island’s dynamic earth processes and rich Amerindian heritage, making it a cherished natural landmark in the Caribbean.
L’Escalier Tete Chien features in ancient Carib myth and legend, and it is the focus of a children’s book titled Snake King of the Kalinago and written by native children in the Kalinago Territory. Carib myth and legend said L’Escalier Tete Chien is a mythical snake that left the Minoco River in South America millions of years ago and settled in a choice river in Dominica.