Temple of the Barracks

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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Temple of the Casernes is a Hindu building located on Rue des Casernes, in the city of Saint Peter, on the island of Reunion. Built in the first half of the 20th century, it is probably the result of the re-use of an old industrial building, the Caserne factory. This small urban temple, assigned to worship since 1950, is distinguished by its modest but symbolic architecture, including a mast of Nargoulan, a square of fire and a dedicated edicle.

The monument consists of a main masonry building, with cutting stone corner links and a corrugated sheet roof. Its gables, cushioned with kalasams (traditional ornaments), are decorated with reliefs representing birds. A square apse protrudes outside, while a portico preceded by a bahut marks the entrance. The Nargulan mast, made of polychrome metal, is planted in a concrete base, and the fire square is facing the building. These elements reflect the ritual practices of the Hindu community.

Filed entirely at the Historic Monuments by decree of 17 September 2010, the Temple of the Casernes illustrates the adaptation of Indian religious traditions to the island context of La Réunion. Its heritage protection underscores its cultural and architectural importance, as well as its role in preserving the local Hindu heritage. The site remains today a private property, bearing witness to the vitality of the religions imported by the Indians in the 19th century.

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