History and Heritage of Martinique

Curry preparations are a must during a gourmet stay in Martinique. Spicy, fragrant and with an exquisite flavor, curry dishes are the most hearty of the local cuisine.

Anyone who spends a few days in Martinique will notice the omnipresence of coconut trees on the island. It is then naturally that the fruit of this palm tree became an essential element of the Martinique culture that we find in numerous recipes of which that of the Coconut Punch that we make you discover here.

Kassava, the zouk group derived its name, is a cassava flour pancake.Reserve your rental car in Martinique and find everywhere on the island, the Caribbean traditions that are largely responsible for Kassav.

Originally from Central and South America, the cheesemaker is present throughout the West Indies. It can also be found in Asia (Indonesia, Cambodia) but also in Madagascar.

Bois lélé (bwa lélé in Creole) is a small piece of wood with a particular shape that is used to stir drinks in Martinique. It exists throughout the Caribbean but its use as a stirrer is typical of the island. Its common name comes from the Creole “lélé”, meaning to mix, to stir. Its scientific name for its part, is Quararibea turbinata.

Among the elements of the culture and heritage of Martinique, there is one that we do not necessarily think of when we talk about the island. These are medicinal plants. The region abounds in its developed flora. Take the time to discover them during your visit to the island of flowers... In the meantime, find a brief overview concocted by us.

The majority religion in Martinique is Christianity. However, there is a tradition that Orthodoxy would tax as pagan, even witchcraft: the quimbois. Very close to Haitian Voodoo, Jamaican Obeah, Cuban Santeria or Brazilian Candomblé, quimbois is deeply linked to Africa and slavery.

Martinique has a long history. Come and discover the 5 key dates in the history of Martinique, formerly called Madinina.

The main religion practiced in Martinique is Roman Catholicism. There are 49 parishes on the archipelago. As a result, there are many churches and cathedrals on the island, some of which are absolutely worth visiting during your stay, such as the cathedral of Fort de France.

The Bakoua is, if we can say so, a typical hat of Martinique. Made of Pandanus leaves, it is ubiquitous in daily life of the local population, both in the life of everyday or on special occasions.

The Bèlè is one of the greatest riches recorded in the cultural heritage of Martinique. Finding its sources in the lives of slaves arrived on the island in the mid-1800s, this highly rhythmic musical practice is still present on the island and is presented in a more polished form and more modern.

Martinique offers a plethora of water and sun-drenched vegetables that embellish dishes and delight the taste buds. Take the time to appreciate the typical vegetables that occupy a special place in the local cuisine.