Diamond Rock is a volcanic plug that rises to a height of 175 meters in the Saint Lucia Channel.
The British and the French have fought many times over the ownership of this island. It was even taken by surprise in 1805 by the British, while they were engaged in the war against Napoleon. The British decided to build a military battery, in the middle of the sea, especially to watch the French!
This location was a strategic point: it offered control of all maritime activity on the island, including access to the St. Lucia Channel.
The Rock was even elevated to the rank of warship in the British Navy.
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The 200 Englishmen slept in caves, but they managed to build a forge, a hospital and workshops. At the same time they installed cannons on the top of the island by dint of ingenuity.
IMAGE “A cannon is hoisted to the top of the rock, suspended by a cable attached to the base of the main mast of the Centaur.”
Their position was causing a serious disturbance in the trade. But after 17 months the French military finally took over the island.
Today no bathing is possible around the rock which is located 2km off the coast.
These 6 isolated hectares are now a nature reserve, managed by the Espace Sud Martinique. The islet is subject to a biotope protection order since 2008.
There is a population of seabirds that come to make their nests, as well as a small endemic lizard, which exists only there.
It is located on one of the largest migration routes on the planet. Birds from North America in search of a shelter for the winter come here to make their nests.
Underwater, the underwater fauna is particularly important. An exceptional diversity of species that cohabit around the rock.
It is a diving spot internationally recognized for its beauty, but it is reserved for experienced divers.