Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a remote archipelago that is both administratively and culturally French. Although it is an overseas collectivity of France, it enjoys a high degree of autonomy and is not part of the European Union. Its two largest islands, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, are home to most of the population, while the smaller islands of Saint Paul, Middleton, and Harpoon are largely uninhabited.
Expat destinations in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Demographics of Saint Pierre and Miquelon:
Ethnic groups
French (descendants of early French settlers) and Newfoundlander (descendants of English-speaking fishermen)
Languages
French (official), English (spoken by some Newfoundlanders)
Religion Overview
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a predominantly Catholic region, with approximately 96% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. The Bishop of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon is a senior bishopric of the Roman Catholic Church, who is responsible for the spiritual care of the Catholic population.
Major Religions
Climate
Saint Pierre and Miquelon has a mild oceanic climate, with cool winters and mild summers. Summer temperatures range from 10°C to 17°C, while winter temperatures range from -3°C to 5°C. Prevailing winds are generally northerly and westerly.
Economy Overview
Saint Pierre and Miquelon has a largely service-based economy, with fishing, tourism, and administration being the most significant sectors. Fish, particularly cod and crab, is a major export, with most of the catch being sold to the European Union. Administrative services and assistance to French expatriates are also significant contributors to the local economy.
Key Industries
- Fish farming
- Tourism
- Administrative services
- Fisheries
Major Companies
- Comptoir Bancaire Otentique (CBO)
- CRD Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
- La Bourse Intérieure St-Pierre
- Credit Agricole de Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
Culture and Language Overview
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is deeply rooted in French culture, with a strong emphasis on traditions, music, and cuisine. The local dialect of French, known as the Saint Pierre and Miquelon French dialect, is spoken by most of the population. Festivals and religious observances play an important role in the island's social calendar, with events such as the Saint-Pierre ice sculpture festival attracting visitors from around the world.
Cultural Highlights
- Saint-Pierre ice sculpture festival
- Caribana de Saint-Pierre
- La Grand-Marche de l'Ascension
- La Semaine Beautet et de la Santé
- Las Chipes Voyage
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Saint Pierre and Miquelon consists of four main islands: Saint Pierre, Miquelon, Saint Paul, and Langlade. Saint Pierre and Miquelon are volcanic in origin, with lush vegetation and rocky terrain. Saint Paul is more rugged and barren, while Langlade is uninhabited. Notable landmarks include the archaeological site of Anse aux Américains, which dates back to the 16th century, and the picturesque fishing village of Cap Saint-Georges.
Notable Landmarks
- Anse aux Américains
- L'Arène
- Cap Saint-Georges
- La Grande Somme
- La Commune des Cinq Ports
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Epiphany (January 6)
- Ascension Day (40 days after Easter)
- Assumption Day (August 15)
- All Saints' Day (November 1)
- Nativity (December 25),
- Saint Stephen's Day (December 26)
Political Stability
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is governed by an elected assembly known as the Assemblée, which consists of 21 members. The highest-ranking official is the Prefect, who is appointed by the French government. Saint Pierre and Miquelon enjoys a high degree of autonomy, and there are no significant political issues or disputes
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