Basilique Saint-Pierre-Chanel de Poi, Catholic minor basilica in Poi, Wallis and Futuna.
The Basilica Saint-Pierre-Chanel de Poi is a Catholic shrine on the coast of Wallis and Futuna with a distinctive stepped tower. Inside, the relics of Saint Pierre Chanel rest in a dedicated chapel, alongside a museum opened in 1991 that displays artifacts and documents from his life.
The site marks where Father Pierre Chanel was killed in 1841 while doing missionary work in the region. The basilica itself was built in 1986 to create a modern memorial for this historical event.
The basilica draws Catholic pilgrims from across the Pacific region who come to express their devotion here. The place has become a spiritual center that brings together people from different islands.
The grounds are easy to navigate on foot, and the distinctive tower is visible from a distance to guide your way. Visitors should prepare for warm tropical weather and wear appropriate clothing for a religious site.
Buried beneath a white cross on the grounds lies Musumusu, a former opponent of the faith who later converted to Catholicism. His grave beside the chapel tells a story of conversion and peace at this location.
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