Stella-Maris Chapel of the Saline-les-Bains

Timeline

Origin and history

The Chapel Stella-Maris de la Saline-les-Bains is a religious monument located in the commune of Saint Paul. This place of worship, whose name evokes a Marian devotion ("Stella Maris", "Star of the Sea"), is distinguished by its location in the district of La Saline-les-Bains, known for its history linked to the exploitation of salt and its subsequent tourist development. Chapels of this type, often erected in coastal or isolated areas, played a central role in the spiritual and community life of local populations.

In La Réunion, these buildings generally reflect the cultural and religious heritage of settlers, slaves and then Creole populations, mixing European, African and Malagasy influences. Their architecture and localization testify to the practical and symbolic needs of the communities that built them.