Notre-Dame des Laves Travel Guide: Top Sights in Réunion, Tours &

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Notre-Dame des Laves- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Réunion; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 1 hours

Notre-Dame des Laves, located in the village of Piton Sainte-Rose on Réunion Island, is a remarkable church with a fascinating history tied to the island's volcanic activity. In 1977, the Piton de la Fournaise volcano erupted, sending lava flows towards the village. Astonishingly, the lava parted at the doors of Notre-Dame des Laves, sparing the church's structure while devastating the surrounding area. This event, whether seen as a miracle or a natural anomaly, left a lasting impression on the local community. Today, the church, painted in vibrant pastel colors, stands as a resilient symbol amidst the dark volcanic rock. Visitors can explore its unique history and see the stained glass windows that depict the dramatic eruption. Easily accessible by car, the church is located along the main N2 road.

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4.8

Reviews of Notre Dame des Laves

Kate Madej

4
Reviewed: 2024-06-08

Small church in the middle of nowhere saved from destruction by lava.
Karen Engelbrecht

5
Reviewed: 2023-11-25

It really brings home the power of the lava flow and how miraculous it is that this church still stands.... Beautiful stained glass windows and newspaper articles on your left as you enter - depicts the series of events as they unfolded on that fateful period in 1977
Daniel Fg

5
Reviewed: 2023-05-23

A truly remarkable church, since it was spared from destruction by the lava flow during the 1977 eruption of the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano. It is still today totally surrounded by lava, so it is worth stopping by when on the so-called Route des laves in Easter Réunion Island.
Eric J

4
Reviewed: 2023-01-09

It is worth to stop by this interesting church if you pass by this area. Whether you believe or not, it is an incredible story to learn that this church survived from destructive lava flow. When we look at those extrusive igneous (volcanic) rocks and stones outside the church, it really shows how destructive the volcano eruptions were at that time.
Mel Klos

4
Reviewed: 2022-10-15

You don't have to be a believer to appreciate how special a building standing in the middle of a river of lava is. Pretty little place inside and some newspaper clips and other info at the back of the church. No guide on site. Free of charge and plenty of parking available next door. The extend of the miracle is obviously evident on the outside Across the road is a tourist trap where you can get junk food. From our limited knowledge of French it looks like there is also a museum in that complex, closed when we were there on a Friday. From here drive south towards St Philippe on the "Lava Road" to appreciate the full destructive power of a volcano.