Under the direction of Father Jean-Moise Exantus, the Sainte-Lucie de Sainte-Luce Catholic Church, located in the heights of the commune, boasts a surprising architecture. Its ceiling strongly resembles the hull of a boat, inverted. Inaugurated with great fanfare on 25 September 2016, it has since become the pride of its faithful! To be discovered without further ado !
Sainte Luce Church: A Complicated Renovation
The parish of Sainte-Luce was founded in 1671, and the church had a white facade with a large tower displaying the Virgin Mary. However, restoration work began in April 2014 to rejuvenate this site frequently visited by parishioners and tourists.
After 23 months and 2.6 million euros later, the church in Martinique finally completed its renovations in May 2016, more beautiful than ever! The building's stones are the same as the original ones. In total, 657 faithful can enter the premises for religious ceremonies.
Architecture of Sainte Luce Church
The white facade and brown (copper) roof of this church, with its random geometry, are intriguing to passersby. It's both beautiful and unique, surprising at first sight.
Upon entering, the warm colors immediately catch your eye and beckon you to explore further—the red of the long aisle leading to the altar, its majestic columns, and the luminous yellow stained glass windows.
You won't miss the grand chandeliers placed in the middle of the church: one simple with lights and Jesus in the center, and the other sparkling, featuring many other portraits. There's so much to admire!
Sainte Luce Catholic Church: A Sacred Place that Inspires Visitors' Admiration
Above the altar stands a painting that deserves your absolute attention!
It depicts Jesus, reclined as if in a large bath, arms outstretched. His head, at the top of the artwork, is surrounded by a luminous halo. Below him, between his arms, the sea emerges, and on it, two fishing boats are present.
They're not alone as there are 7 sailors on the boats and in the water, seemingly fishing. This number appears significant, signifying completion and fulfillment, probably in reference to the completion of the church's renovation.
This painting seems to portray the kindness of Jesus Christ, offering a miraculous catch to the fishermen who will then feed the inhabitants of Sainte-Luce.
What to Do near Sainte Luce Church?
As it's a seaside town, various water activities are available: boat rides and excursions, jet-skiing, or kayaking…
You can simply relax on the beaches of Anse Mabouya, Corps de Garde, or Gros Raisins with friends.
For a more engaging experience, you can visit Domaine Trois-Rivières, located at the southernmost point of Martinique, where the rum of the same name is distilled. An opportunity to learn more about this famous rum that adorns the shelves of stores and perhaps also your own.
For the more adventurous, a hike in the heart of the Montravail forest and its 70 hectares will likely be ideal (preferably in dry weather)! You can enjoy the tranquility of the place to recharge.
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