Marie-Galante Island

With an area of 40 acres and a round, flat shape, the island is referred to by its 12,000 inhabitants as the Big Pancake. Sugar farming and tourism are the primary industries.

Christopher Columbus, who landed in 1493, named the island after the flagship of his second voyage. Sugar mills were first established by French entrepreneurs in 1664 and the industry grew until over a hundred windmills were in operation in the 19th C. 72 of the towers are still standing.

Sightseeing, hiking, nightclubs and local events such as oxen tug-of-war and cockfights are prime activities for the visitor.