Saint Mark Parish, Dominica facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Saint Mark
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Church in Soufrière
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| Country | Dominica |
| Capital | Soufrière |
| Area | |
| • Total | 10.4 km2 (4.0 sq mi) |
| Population
(2011)
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| • Total | 1,834 |
| • Density | 176.3/km2 (456.7/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC-4 |
| ISO 3166-2 | DM-08 |
Saint Mark is one of the ten parishes in the beautiful island nation of Dominica. A parish is like a special region or district. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and interesting history.
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Exploring Saint Mark Parish
Saint Mark Parish is located on the southwestern coast of Dominica. It is a relatively small parish. The total area is about 10.4 square kilometers.
Main Villages in Saint Mark
The parish has a few important villages. These are places where people live and work.
Soufrière: The Capital Village
Soufrière is the main village, or "capital," of Saint Mark Parish. It is a charming coastal community. The name "Soufrière" comes from the French word for sulfur. This is because of the natural hot springs nearby. These springs are heated by volcanic activity. People often visit them for their warm, relaxing waters. The village also has a lovely church, as seen in the picture.
Scotts Head: A Unique Spot
Scotts Head is another important village. It is famous for its unique geography. Here, a narrow strip of land connects a small headland to the main island. This type of landform is called a tombolo. From Scotts Head, you can see both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters are full of colorful fish and coral.
Galion: A Smaller Community
Galion is a smaller village in the parish. It adds to the local charm of Saint Mark. These villages together make up the community of Saint Mark.
Nature and Environment
Saint Mark Parish is part of Dominica's amazing natural environment. The island is known for its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes.
Volcanic Features
The hot springs near Soufrière are a direct result of Dominica's volcanic past. The island is part of a volcanic arc. This means there are many interesting geological features. These include boiling lakes and sulfur vents. These features make the landscape truly unique.
Coastal Beauty
The coastline of Saint Mark is very beautiful. It has rocky cliffs and clear blue waters. This makes it a great place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy swimming, diving, and exploring the coast. The marine life here is very rich.
Population and Lifestyle
In 2011, about 1,834 people lived in Saint Mark Parish. The people here live a peaceful, community-focused life. Many work in fishing or tourism.
Local Culture
The culture in Saint Mark, like the rest of Dominica, is a mix of African and European influences. Music, dance, and traditional foods are important parts of daily life. People are friendly and welcoming.
Daily Life
Life in Saint Mark is often connected to the sea. Fishing boats are a common sight. The villages are quiet and offer a relaxed pace of life. Children go to local schools. Families often gather for meals and community events.
