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Français (France) 
Nederlands (nl-NL) Reunion Island: An Overview
Geography
Reunion Island is an overseas department and region of France located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 700 kilometers east of Madagascar and 200 kilometers southwest of Mauritius. The island covers an area of 2,512 square kilometers and is primarily of volcanic origin. The island’s topography is dominated by two major volcanic formations: the Piton des Neiges, which at 3,071 meters is the highest point on the island and an extinct volcano, and the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, located in the southeastern part of the island.
Reunion’s landscape is characterized by its dramatic relief, which includes deep valleys, steep cliffs, and several natural amphitheaters known as cirques (Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie). These cirques are the result of ancient volcanic activity and subsequent erosion. The island also features lush tropical forests, coastal plains, and an extensive coral reef that provides a habitat for diverse marine life.
The climate of Reunion is tropical, with a hot and humid season from November to April and a cooler, drier season from May to October. The island is also prone to cyclones, particularly during the austral summer.
History
Reunion Island has a relatively late history of human settlement. It was first discovered by Arab sailors in the Middle Ages, though it did not appear on European maps until the early 16th century, when it was noted by Portuguese explorers. The island remained uninhabited until 1642 when it was claimed by France and named "Île Bourbon" in honor of the French royal family. Initial colonization efforts were slow, with the first settlers arriving in 1665.
During the 18th century, the French East India Company established a more permanent presence on the island, focusing on the cultivation of coffee and, later, sugarcane. The introduction of these crops required a large labor force, leading to the importation of African slaves, primarily from Madagascar and Mozambique. This period laid the foundation for the island’s diverse population, as African, Malagasy, and European influences began to shape its social and cultural landscape.
The abolition of slavery in 1848 was a turning point in Reunion's history. The end of slavery created a significant labor shortage, which the colonial administration addressed by importing indentured laborers from India, particularly from Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. These workers, known as "coolies," played a crucial role in maintaining the island's sugarcane industry. The arrival of Indian laborers added a new layer of cultural and religious diversity to Reunion, which is still evident today.
In 1946, Reunion was officially declared a department of France, fully integrating the island into the French Republic. This change brought significant economic and social development, including improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Reunion's status as a French department has also led to strong ties with mainland France, both politically and economically.
Social and Cultural Characteristics
Reunion Island is a unique melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, with a population of approximately 860,000 people. The island's demographic composition reflects its history of colonization, slavery, and immigration, resulting in a society that is multiracial and multicultural. The main ethnic groups on the island include people of European (mostly French) descent, Africans, Malagasy, Indians, and Chinese, as well as a significant mixed-race population.
The official language of Reunion is French, used in government, education, and the media. However, Reunion Creole, a French-based creole language, is widely spoken in everyday life and is a key element of the island's cultural identity. The creole language is a testament to the island's complex history and serves as a unifying force among its diverse population.
Reunionese cuisine is another reflection of the island's cultural diversity. It blends French culinary techniques with ingredients and flavors from Africa, India, China, and Madagascar. Traditional dishes include "cari" (a type of curry), "rougail" (a spicy tomato-based condiment), and "samosas." The island's culinary traditions are an integral part of its cultural heritage and are celebrated in various festivals and local events.
Religious and Cultural Traditions
Religious diversity is a hallmark of Reunion Island. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, a legacy of French colonization, but the island is also home to significant communities of Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists, reflecting the diverse origins of its inhabitants. Hinduism, brought by Indian laborers in the 19th century, is particularly influential, with numerous temples and religious festivals such as Dipavali (Diwali) and Cavadee being widely observed.
Islam is practiced by descendants of Indian and Comorian immigrants, with mosques found across the island. The Chinese community, although smaller, has maintained its traditions, including Buddhism and ancestral worship, with temples and cultural associations that organize celebrations for the Lunar New Year and other traditional festivals.
The island's musical traditions are deeply rooted in its history. The "maloya" and "séga" are the two most prominent musical genres on Reunion. Maloya, originally a form of protest and expression for enslaved people, has evolved into a symbol of Creole identity and resistance. In 2009, maloya was recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Séga, with its more upbeat rhythms, also plays a significant role in the island's cultural life, often performed at celebrations and social gatherings.
Conclusion
Reunion Island is a vibrant and dynamic society that embodies a rich tapestry of cultural, religious, and historical influences. Its geography, marked by volcanic activity and diverse ecosystems, is as varied as its population. From its complex history of colonization, slavery, and immigration to its unique blend of languages, cuisines, and traditions, Reunion stands out as a place where diverse cultures coexist and thrive. As a department of France, the island maintains strong connections to Europe while preserving its distinct identity, making it a unique and fascinating part of the Indian Ocean region.
Geography
A little information about the country that one intends to visit or that one has visited often allows us to put into context the past or future emotions specific to each trip. A little history or anecdotes are often welcome ... This is what you can find on this page dedicated to Reunion Island. But nothing like (short) videos to get a more precise idea of the places visited or to visit. Beside is a list of the videos edited from the photographic material I brought back from the trip Mauritius • Cavadee 2020 / Reunion (EN).
You just have to click on the image to access the page giving more information on the place treated in the video and of course, to see this video ...
