Bel Air Cemetery
Bel Air
Bel Air Cemetery, located in the Bel Air district on the western outskirts of Victoria, Seychelles, is the oldest official cemetery in the archipelago. Founded soon after the establishment of L'Établissement du Roi in 1778 by French settlers, it served as the primary burial site for early inhabitants and settlers of Mahé. The cemetery witnessed burials during significant historical events, including the devastating landslide and flood known as the "Lavalasse" in 1862 and the smallpox epidemic of 1883. Officially closed to new burials in 1902, the site gradually fell into disrepair due to tropical weather and neglect, with many tombstones and wrought-iron crosses deteriorating over time. In recognition of its historical importance, Bel Air Cemetery was designated a national monument in 1985. Notable figures interred here include early settlers and prominent community members such as Charles Drorthee Savy, Charles Dupuy, Jean Baptiste Rémy d'Argent, Jean-François Hodoul, Pierre-Louis Poiret, and Thomas Paton. Today, it stands as a significant cultural and historical landmark reflecting the early colonial history of Seychelles.
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Tip: Visitors interested in history should explore Bel Air Cemetery during daylight hours for safety and better visibility. As the site is a protected national monument, respect for the grounds is essential. Since it is an outdoor historic site, weather conditions can affect the visit; the dry season is preferable. There are no entrance fees, but guided tours may be limited, so prior inquiry with local tourist information centers is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Bel Air Cemetery is the oldest official cemetery in Seychelles, dating back to 1778.
- •The cemetery contains graves of early French settlers and notable figures from Seychelles history.
- •It was the main burial site during major events such as the 1862 landslide and flood known as "Lavalasse" and the 1883 smallpox epidemic.
- •The cemetery was officially closed for new burials in 1902 due to health concerns.
- •In 1985, Bel Air Cemetery was designated a national monument to protect its historical heritage.
History
Bel Air Cemetery was established shortly after the French settlers founded L'Établissement du Roi in 1778, marking it as the earliest official burial site in Seychelles.
It served as the main cemetery through the 19th century, including during the 1862 "Lavalasse" landslide and flood disaster and the 1883 smallpox epidemic.
The cemetery was officially closed to new burials in 1902 by the local health board.
Over the 20th century, exposure to tropical weather and neglect caused many tombs and memorials to deteriorate.
In 1985, the cemetery was recognized as a national monument to preserve its historical significance.
