Église Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, Catholic church in Cilaos, Reunion Island, France.
Église Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is a reinforced-concrete church in Cilaos, built in Art Deco style with a single nave, visible concrete arches, and a bell tower topped by an octagonal belfry. Its main altar is concrete clad in marble and mosaic, and tall side windows light the interior.
Construction took place between 1937 and 1940 under Father Paul Boiteau's guidance, replacing an earlier church that had stood since 1858. The new building was needed to accommodate the growing community in this mountain town.
The interior furnishings were entirely crafted by Irénée Accot, the first mayor of Cilaos, demonstrating the skill of local artisans. These handmade elements remain visible throughout the church's interior.
The church stands at the northern edge of Cilaos, west of Rue des Sources, on a raised stone base reached by steps. The nave runs northeast to southwest, with the square bell tower at its southwest corner and the main gable facing south. Visitors enter through the large arched doorway beneath the curved finial.
The bell tower holds a carillon of 48 bells, inaugurated on 7 April 1996. Large crosses made of blue glass on the tower light up at night. The church was listed as a monument historique in full, including its plot, on 14 August 2000.
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