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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

Morange Castle is an emblematic building of Saint-Denis, on the island of La Réunion, built in the 3rd quarter of the 19th century (circa 1850–61). Initiated by Prosper Morange and directed by entrepreneur F. Chatel, then architect Victor Frappier de Montbenoît, he embodies the architectural climax of the réunion sugar bourgeoisie. Located at Doret Boulevard (neighborhood of the Camelias), this neo-classical castle is inspired by the luxurious homes of the period, such as the Léon-Dierx museum or the Lauratet residence, with its lava and brick houses, patio and circular galleries.

After the decline of the sugar economy in the 1860s, the castle changed its vocation: it housed, between 1926 and 1929, the Moroccan raisin Abdelkrim al-Khattabi (Abd-Del-Krim), a political exile. Ranked a historic monument in 2010 for its ensemble (castle, park, outbuildings and fences), it is now a Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture, with a 110-seat showroom. Its architecture combines Creole and neo-classical influences, with local materials such as lava stone and metal blankets.

The estate, about 7 hectares, includes a main stone building covered with metal, tile outbuildings, and a wooden longère. The plans of 1861 describe a "large house with inner courtyard and circular galleries", surrounded by stables and related buildings. A mixed property (common and private), the Morang Castle illustrates both the colonial heritage of Réunion and its contemporary adaptation to cultural and educational uses.

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