📖 About Dzaoudzi

Dzaoudzi is a commune in the French overseas department of Mayotte, located on the small island of Petite-Terre (also known as Pamanzi) in the Indian Ocean. With a population of approximately 17,000 residents, the commune—sometimes called Dzaoudzi-Labattoir—encompasses the twin towns of Dzaoudzi and Labattoir. The town's historic core is dramatically built around Dzaoudzi Rock, a volcanic outcropping towering over the surrounding coastal waters.

Dzaoudzi holds a special place in Mayotte's history as the former capital of not only Mayotte but also of all the colonial Comoros. In 1977, the capital was relocated to Mamoudzou on the larger island of Grande-Terre (Maore), but Dzaoudzi retained its importance as an administrative and economic center. The presence of the French Foreign Legion Detachment, based here since 1973, adds to the town's strategic significance.

Today, Dzaoudzi serves as a gateway for visitors arriving at Dzaoudzi Pamandzi International Airport, Mayotte's main airport located in the neighboring commune. The town offers access to one of the world's largest lagoons, making water sports the main attraction—diving, surfing, fishing, swimming, sailing, and parasailing draw visitors from around the world to these pristine Indian Ocean waters.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Dzaoudzi's economy centers on its role as an administrative hub and gateway to Mayotte. The proximity to the international airport brings tourist traffic, supporting hotels, restaurants, and water sports operators. The French Foreign Legion's presence provides economic activity and employment. Fishing remains important to local livelihoods, with traditional methods passed down through generations alongside modern commercial operations.

The culture of Dzaoudzi reflects Mayotte's unique position as a French department with deep Comorian and Malagasy roots. Islam is the predominant religion, and daily life revolves around prayer times and religious observances. Traditional music, including the "m'biwi" drum performances, accompanies celebrations and ceremonies. The local language, Shimaore (a dialect of Comorian), is spoken alongside French. Visitors experience this cultural blend through traditional cuisine, crafts, and the warm hospitality characteristic of Mahorais communities.

📜 History

Dzaoudzi's strategic position made it the natural choice for colonial administration when France established its presence in Mayotte in 1841. The town served as capital of the French colonial Comoros, governing not only Mayotte but also Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli. This administrative importance shaped the town's development, bringing government buildings, military installations, and infrastructure to the small island.

When the other Comoro Islands voted for independence in 1974, Mayotte chose to remain French, and Dzaoudzi continued as capital until 1977 when administrative functions moved to Mamoudzou on Grande-Terre. The relocation reflected the growing population and economic importance of the larger island. In 2011, Mayotte officially became France's 101st department, further integrating this Indian Ocean territory into the French Republic while Dzaoudzi preserved its historical significance as the former seat of power.