Réunion Island, officially known as Réunion, is a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius. As an overseas department, Réunion is an integral part of France and thus part of the European Union. The capital city is Saint-Denis. The island was known to Arab and Indian traders as early as the 10th century. It was uninhabited until it was claimed by France in 1642. The island was initially named Bourbon and was a colony of France. It was renamed Réunion in 1848, the same year slavery was abolished on the island. Réunion's economy is primarily driven by the public sector, with significant contributions from agriculture, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. The island is known for producing vanilla, sugarcane, and a variety of tropical fruits. Tourism is also a growing sector, thanks to the island's diverse natural landscapes and cultural offerings. The population of Réunion is a melting pot of ethnicities, including people of African, Indian, European, Malagasy, and Chinese descent. This diversity is reflected in the island's vibrant culture, which includes a mix of languages, religions, and traditions. French is the official language, but Réunion Creole is widely spoken. Culturally, Réunion is known for its unique blend of Creole, African, Indian, and French influences, evident in its music, dance, and cuisine. The island is famous for its traditional music genre called Sega, which has African roots. Geographically, Réunion is characterized by a varied landscape that includes lush forests, volcanic peaks, and beautiful beaches. The island is dominated by two volcanic mountains: Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and Piton des Neiges, the highest point on the island. The diverse landscapes make it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, canyoning, and paragliding. Réunion is also known for its rich biodiversity and is home to many endemic species. However, the island faces environmental challenges, including the threat of invasive species and the impact of climate change. Despite its small size, Réunion is a unique and vibrant part of the French Republic, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Population of Réunion Island from 2018 to 2020: 2018: Approximately 859,959 inhabitants. 2019: Approximately 866,506 inhabitants. 2020: Approximately 873,356 inhabitants. Capital (Saint-Denis): Population in 2020: About 147,920 inhabitants. Top 10 cities by number of inhabitants in 2020: (Figures are approximate) Saint-Denis: 147,920 Saint-Paul: 105,988 Saint-Pierre: 85,295 Le Tampon: 77,626 Saint-André: 57,529 Saint-Louis: 54,675 Le Port: 40,771 Saint-Joseph: 38,364 Saint-Benoît: 37,577 Sainte-Marie: 34,634