Saint-Paul Map

Description:

---

Description:

---

Saint-Paul is a commune located on the western coast of Réunion, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. With approximately 106,000 inhabitants, it is the second most populous commune on the island and holds significant historical importance as the first settlement site of Réunion, established in 1665.

The commune stretches from the coastal area to the mountainous interior, encompassing diverse landscapes including the famous Saint-Paul Bay, which features a natural lagoon protected by a coral reef. The area experiences a tropical climate with relatively dry conditions compared to the eastern part of the island. The historic Saint-Paul Cemetery, one of the oldest in Réunion, contains graves dating back to the 17th century, including those of several pirates.

Notable attractions include the Grotte des Premiers Français (Cave of the First French), where the initial French settlers reportedly took shelter, and the Marché de Saint-Paul, a vibrant open-air market that operates along the seafront. The commune is also home to the Maïdo Peak, offering spectacular views of the Mafate Cirque and the ocean.

Saint-Paul serves as an important economic and tourist center, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shopping facilities. The education system includes several primary and secondary schools, including the prestigious Lycée Évariste de Parny. Transportation infrastructure connects the commune to other parts of the island via the Route des Tamarins, a major highway. The local economy is diverse, encompassing tourism, agriculture, commerce, and services sectors.

The Facts:
Arrondissement: Saint-Paul.
Commune: Saint-Paul.
Canton: Saint-Paul-(1, 2, 3).
Population: ~ 106,220 (2022).
Population (Arrondissement): ~ 215,000.
Area (Arrondissement): ~ 207.4 sq mi (537.2 sq km)
Area (Commune): ~ 93.2 sq mi (241.3 sq km).