The Montagne Pelée Volcanological Observatory, located on Morne des Cadets, is responsible for monitoring volcanic and seismic activity and conducting related research. After the 1902 eruption, Professor Alfred Lacroix had a small hut built on Morne des Cadets to serve as an observatory.
He worked there with a few geophysical measuring instruments, but as the volcano showed no further signs of activity, the decision was made to stop the observations. Four years later, the major 1929 eruption caused no casualties but did result in material damage.
A permanent observatory was then built and inaugurated on Morne Moustin, facing the historic installation on Morne des Cadets, from which it inherited its name.
Today, the observatory monitors not only the volcano but also the island’s subsurface seismic activity.
An information and exhibition room is open to the public during the observatory’s visiting hours.
The site has been listed as a Historic Monument since 2012.
