About RE
Capital
The capital city of Réunion is Saint-Denis.
Population
As of the latest estimates, Réunion has a population of approximately 859,000 people.
Area
Réunion covers a total land area of about 2,512 square kilometers (970 square miles).
Official Language
French is the official language of Réunion.
Government
Réunion is an integral part of France and is governed as an overseas department and region of France. As such, it is subject to the same laws and regulations as mainland France.
Status
Réunion is considered an overseas department and region (département et région d'outre-mer, or DROM) of France, making it an integral part of the French Republic.
Currency
The currency used in Réunion is the Euro (EUR), as it is part of France.
Economy
Réunion's economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, tourism, and services. The island is known for its production of sugarcane, vanilla, and other agricultural products. Tourism is also an important industry, with visitors attracted to Réunion's natural beauty, including its volcanoes, mountains, and beaches.
Natural Features
Réunion is known for its rugged and diverse landscape, including active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and stunning coastline. The island is home to Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and Piton des Neiges, the highest point in the Indian Ocean.
Culture
Réunion's culture is a blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese influences, reflecting its diverse population. The island's cuisine, music, dance, and festivals showcase this cultural diversity.
Transportation
Réunion has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including roads, highways, and an international airport. Public transportation, such as buses and taxis, is available in urban areas.
Environment
Réunion is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to many unique plant and animal species found only on the island. Efforts are underway to protect and preserve Réunion's natural environment, including its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons, Cirques, and Ramparts.
Language
While French is the official language, Réunion is also home to various Creole languages spoken by the local population, such as Réunion Creole.
Climate
Réunion has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The island experiences a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.
National Items of Réunion
Volcanic Landscapes
Réunion Island is known for its volcanic activity, with Piton de la Fournaise being one of the most active volcanoes in the world. It symbolizes the island's geological significance and natural beauty.
Creole Culture
The Creole culture in Réunion is a blend of African, Indian, European, and Chinese influences. It symbolizes the island's multicultural heritage and rich cultural diversity.
Vanilla
Réunion is famous for its high-quality vanilla, particularly Bourbon vanilla. It symbolizes the island's agricultural heritage, economic importance, and global culinary influence.
Dodo
Although extinct, the Dodo bird is often associated with Réunion's neighboring island, Mauritius. It symbolizes the unique and fragile ecosystems of the region.
Rhums
Réunion produces a variety of rums, known for their distinctive flavors. Rum production symbolizes the island's agricultural heritage, particularly sugarcane cultivation, and its vibrant culinary scene.
Carnival of Saint-Denis
The Carnival of Saint-Denis is a major cultural event featuring parades, music, and dance. It symbolizes the island's festive spirit, cultural heritage, and community celebrations.
Reunionese Music
Maloya and Sega are traditional music genres in Réunion. They symbolize the island's rich musical heritage, cultural expression, and artistic traditions.
Boucané
Boucané is a traditional smoked meat dish from Réunion. It symbolizes the island's culinary heritage and the blend of different cultural influences in its cuisine.
Piton des Neiges
Piton des Neiges is the highest peak on Réunion Island. It symbolizes natural beauty, adventure, and the island's dramatic landscapes.
Botanical Gardens
Réunion's botanical gardens, such as the Jardin de l'État, symbolize the island's rich biodiversity, conservation efforts, and natural beauty.
Reunionese Handicrafts
Traditional handicrafts, including woven baskets and beadwork, symbolize the island's artisanal heritage, cultural identity, and craftsmanship.
Marine Biodiversity
Réunion's surrounding waters are rich in marine life, symbolizing the island's ecological diversity, natural beauty, and commitment to marine conservation.
Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains
Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains is a popular coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. It symbolizes the island's tourism appeal and natural beauty.
Reunionese Tea
Réunion produces high-quality tea, particularly in the region of Saint-Benoît. It symbolizes the island's agricultural diversity and cultural heritage.
Piton de la Fournaise
Piton de la Fournaise is one of the world's most active volcanoes, symbolizing geological significance, natural beauty, and the island's dynamic landscapes.
Reunionese Spices
Réunion is known for its diverse range of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices symbolize the island's rich culinary heritage and agricultural significance.
La Réunion National Park
La Réunion National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing the island's commitment to conservation, biodiversity, and natural beauty.
Reunionese Dodo Egg
The dodo egg, although not native to Réunion, represents the island's connection to the broader Mascarene Islands' ecological history and the fragility of unique species.
Please note that while "La Marseillaise" serves as the anthem for Réunion, it represents the entire French Republic, including its overseas territories and departments.
Réunion is an overseas department and region of France, and as such, it does not have its own national anthem. The national anthem of Réunion is the same as that of France, "La Marseillaise."
Allons enfants de la Patrie,
Le jour de gloire est arrivé!
Contre nous de la tyrannie,
L'étendard sanglant est levé, (bis)
Entendez-vous dans les campagnes
Mugir ces féroces soldats?
Ils viennent jusque dans vos bras
Égorger vos fils, vos compagnes!
Aux armes, citoyens,
Formez vos bataillons,
Marchons, marchons!
Qu'un sang impur
Abreuve nos sillons!
Amour sacré de la Patrie,
Conduis, soutiens nos bras vengeurs!
Liberté, Liberté chérie,
Combats avec tes défenseurs! (bis)
Sous nos drapeaux, que la victoire
Accoure à tes mâles accents!
Que tes ennemis expirants
Voient ton triomphe et notre gloire!
Aux armes, citoyens,
Formez vos bataillons,
Marchons, marchons!
Qu'un sang impur
Abreuve nos sillons!
