Formed 3 millions years ago, the Island arbitrates 2 massive volcanoes, the “Piton des Neiges”(the older of the two volcanoes, which is extincted today), and the “Piton de la Fournaise” (the younger and one of the most active volcanoes worldwide).
The 2 vulcanoes have created the magnifient landscape of the Island. The three Cirques (Mafate, Salazie & Cilaos), have been created by the breakdown of the “Piton des Neiges”. Arranged like a clover leaf on the vestiges of the old volcano, the 3 Cirques are like a history book which helps the visitor to understand the evolution of a volcano.
On August 2, 2010, those wonders have been recognized as having outstanding universal value by UNESCO . They were classified as “World Heritage Sites”.
The classified area corresponds to the National Park of Reunion Island (an area of more than 100,000 ha or 40% of the surface of the Island) including the spectacular “Pitons, Cirques et Remparts” which contribute to a conservation of biodiversity. Reunion Island is home to biological treasures with 230 plant species, of which some are endemic.
Reunion Island is the 35th cultural property in general and the 4th cultural property of France, which has been classified as “World Heritage Site”, after the Gulf of Porto in Corsica, the Mont-Perdu in the Pyrenees and the lagoons of New Caledonia.
As exceptional destination, Reunion Island is more than ever recommended for Eco-tourists, everyone who adores the nature and new sensations...in particular the Wild South of the Island, marked by eruptions of the “Piton de la Fournaise”, makes up the landscape as one of the most authentic, preserved for flora & fauna, but also for the Creole culture.
For further information:
- The web site of the UNESCO
