Sainte-Suzanne, Town in Grande Rivière Saint-Jean, Saint-Denis, La Reunion, France
Sainte-Suzanne is a town on the northeast coast of La Reunion island, stretching from sea level up to mountain peaks with green terrain throughout. Several rivers flow through the area creating natural swimming spots and waterfalls like the Niagara cascade, while the coastline features a dark sand beach and the red-and-white striped Phare de Bel-Air lighthouse.
The town was founded in the 1600s, making it one of the oldest settlements on the island with a past rooted in sugarcane and vanilla farming. The Phare de Bel-Air lighthouse was built in 1844 to guide ships away from dangerous rocks, while the neighborhood Quartier-Français recalls historical conflicts between French and English forces in the area.
The name Sainte-Suzanne comes from a Christian saint and reflects the religious identity of the place. The diverse temples and churches visible throughout the town show the cultural blend of French, African, and Indian influences that come together during local festivals with music, dance, and traditional food.
The area stretches from coast to hilly terrain, so sturdy shoes and time to explore different zones are important. The Tuesday market with fresh fruits and local goods is a lively gathering where you can meet residents and sample regional products available directly from sellers.
Edmond Albius, a local farmer, discovered a technique for pollinating vanilla plants in the 1800s that transformed how the crop grew. His innovation gained recognition only long after his death, yet today it remains a remarkable part of the area's agricultural legacy.
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