The Dock

     The southeastern corner of the plaza slopes down to Bayou Maçon. Archaeologists call this gentle slope the dock. The dock would have provided an easy route for people to reach the site from the bayou. This was important because the bayou was used for trade, travel and fishing.

     People raised the uppermost part of the dock where it intersects with the plaza. Guests walking up the slope would not be able to see the site until they reached the very top of the dock. Then, visitors would have been able to see Poverty Point in its entirety. The view surely would have left travelers in awe of the site.

(Right) Bayou Maçon viewed from the top of the slope.

(Below) The gentle rise of the dock is clearly visible from the air.