Port Louis Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Port Louis
Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a colorful blend of French, Indian, and African influences. Nestled on the northwest coast of the island, this major commercial port boasts a wealth of colonial past carefully preserved and reflected in local architecture.
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French rule in 1736 and was renamed in honor of King Louis XV.
During that time, the island served as a crucial stopover for French ships navigating between Asia and Europe around the Cape of Good Hope and was known as Isle of France. The city’s development was significantly influenced by the French governor, Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais. Given its location well-protected from cyclones by the Moka Mountain Range, the strategic importance of Port Louis continued through the British occupation during the Napoleonic Wars. Although the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 reduced ship visits, the port saw a resurgence during its closure in 1967 and subsequent modernizations in the late 1970s.
Today, while still the business and administrative hub, Port Louis has expanded into tourism, notably through developments at the Caudan Waterfront – blending shopping, dining, and entertainment with seaside charm.
Port Louis' historical narrative is vividly reflected in its Old Town area, where colonial buildings blend with modern structures, encapsulating the city’s evolution over centuries. The Arms Square forms the grand entrance to the core of the city, flanked by royal palms leading up to the stately Government House.
Adjacent to this is the Natural History Museum, home to some of the island's rarest specimens, including the famous dodo bird. The nearby Company Gardens, a remnant of the East India Company’s influence on the island, provide a serene escape amid the urban landscape.
The cultural richness of Port Louis is further exemplified by landmarks such as the Port Louis Theatre and Saint Louis Cathedral. Fort Adelaide, perched above the city, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the area's defensive past.
Meanwhile, the Central Market offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells where one can experience the local flavors and crafts. Significant historical sites also include the Aapravasi Ghat, recognized by UNESCO for its role in the history of indentured labor.
Port Louis is more than just a destination; it's a journey through time and culture. Take this self-guided introductory walk to the heart of Mauritius and make your own memories in this tropical haven.
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French rule in 1736 and was renamed in honor of King Louis XV.
During that time, the island served as a crucial stopover for French ships navigating between Asia and Europe around the Cape of Good Hope and was known as Isle of France. The city’s development was significantly influenced by the French governor, Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais. Given its location well-protected from cyclones by the Moka Mountain Range, the strategic importance of Port Louis continued through the British occupation during the Napoleonic Wars. Although the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 reduced ship visits, the port saw a resurgence during its closure in 1967 and subsequent modernizations in the late 1970s.
Today, while still the business and administrative hub, Port Louis has expanded into tourism, notably through developments at the Caudan Waterfront – blending shopping, dining, and entertainment with seaside charm.
Port Louis' historical narrative is vividly reflected in its Old Town area, where colonial buildings blend with modern structures, encapsulating the city’s evolution over centuries. The Arms Square forms the grand entrance to the core of the city, flanked by royal palms leading up to the stately Government House.
Adjacent to this is the Natural History Museum, home to some of the island's rarest specimens, including the famous dodo bird. The nearby Company Gardens, a remnant of the East India Company’s influence on the island, provide a serene escape amid the urban landscape.
The cultural richness of Port Louis is further exemplified by landmarks such as the Port Louis Theatre and Saint Louis Cathedral. Fort Adelaide, perched above the city, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the area's defensive past.
Meanwhile, the Central Market offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells where one can experience the local flavors and crafts. Significant historical sites also include the Aapravasi Ghat, recognized by UNESCO for its role in the history of indentured labor.
Port Louis is more than just a destination; it's a journey through time and culture. Take this self-guided introductory walk to the heart of Mauritius and make your own memories in this tropical haven.
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Port Louis Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Port Louis Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Mauritius » Port Louis (See other walking tours in Port Louis)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 13
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Author: helenp
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Mauritius » Port Louis (See other walking tours in Port Louis)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 13
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Author: helenp
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Place d'Armes (Arms Square)
- Government House
- Natural History Museum
- Company Gardens
- Port Louis Theatre
- Saint Louis Cathedral
- Fort Adelaide
- Jummah Mosque
- Chinatown Gate
- Central Market
- Aapravasi Ghat
- Mauritius Postal Museum
- Le Caudan Waterfront
1) Place d'Armes (Arms Square)
The Arms Square, also known as Sookdeo Bissoondoyal Square, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Port Louis. This historic boulevard, lined with majestic royal palm trees, serves as a grand entrance to the city and leads directly to the Government House, a stunning French-colonial structure dating back to 1738. The square is a testament to the island’s rich colonial history and stands as a symbol of the nation’s heritage. The Government House, with its beautiful architecture, is one of the most recognized buildings on the island and serves as a reminder of Mauritius's French colonial past.
One of the most notable features of the Arms Square is the collection of statues that pay tribute to some of the most influential figures in Mauritian history. The statue of Queen Victoria, portrayed in her typically stern and regal manner, reflects the island’s ties to the British Empire. At the opposite end of the avenue, near the waterfront, stands the statue of Mahé de Labourdonnais, a dynamic colonial governor whose leadership greatly influenced the development of Mauritius. His statue has become an emblem of Port Louis and is recognized throughout the island.
The Arms Square is not just a historic site; it is also a vibrant area that connects the old and new parts of the city. The square is a hub of activity, with both locals and tourists frequenting the area to admire its beauty, take in the historical significance, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the nearby Port Louis Waterfront.
One of the most notable features of the Arms Square is the collection of statues that pay tribute to some of the most influential figures in Mauritian history. The statue of Queen Victoria, portrayed in her typically stern and regal manner, reflects the island’s ties to the British Empire. At the opposite end of the avenue, near the waterfront, stands the statue of Mahé de Labourdonnais, a dynamic colonial governor whose leadership greatly influenced the development of Mauritius. His statue has become an emblem of Port Louis and is recognized throughout the island.
The Arms Square is not just a historic site; it is also a vibrant area that connects the old and new parts of the city. The square is a hub of activity, with both locals and tourists frequenting the area to admire its beauty, take in the historical significance, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the nearby Port Louis Waterfront.
2) Government House
Government House is one of the most historic buildings in Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius. Dubbed as the oldest building of the capital, it was built during the French colonization era and served as the residence of the first French governor of Mauritius. The construction of this building was supervised by the governor himself, and its architecture is typical of the period.
The Government House has a strong historical significance and is considered an architectural gem. The building has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to preserve its original beauty and charm. Today, it serves as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Mauritius and is not open to the general public.
One of the most striking features of the Government House is the statue of Queen Victoria that stands in front of the building. The statue was erected during the British colonial period and is a testament to the island's colonial history. The statue portrays Queen Victoria with an air of un-amused indifference, which is quite characteristic of her personality.
Visitors to the Government House can still admire the architecture of the building from the outside, which is a blend of French and British styles. The building's main entrance is adorned with a beautiful wrought-iron gate and a flight of steps leading up to the entrance. The building's walls are made of local stone, and the roof is covered with red tiles.
The Government House has a strong historical significance and is considered an architectural gem. The building has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to preserve its original beauty and charm. Today, it serves as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Mauritius and is not open to the general public.
One of the most striking features of the Government House is the statue of Queen Victoria that stands in front of the building. The statue was erected during the British colonial period and is a testament to the island's colonial history. The statue portrays Queen Victoria with an air of un-amused indifference, which is quite characteristic of her personality.
Visitors to the Government House can still admire the architecture of the building from the outside, which is a blend of French and British styles. The building's main entrance is adorned with a beautiful wrought-iron gate and a flight of steps leading up to the entrance. The building's walls are made of local stone, and the roof is covered with red tiles.
3) Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is the oldest museum on the island and a cornerstone of the region's cultural and scientific heritage. Located on the ground floor of the Mauritius Institute Building, which is itself a National Heritage site, the museum boasts a rich collection that spans the diverse natural history of Mauritius and the Mascarene Islands. The Mauritius Institute Building, constructed between 1880 and 1884, was designed by British architect M. Mann and is a partial replica of the Colombo Museum in Sri Lanka.
Established in 1826 by naturalists Julien Desjardins and Louis Bouton, the museum’s origins date back to the Desjardins Museum of African Modern Art, which was inaugurated on October 14, 1842. The museum initially operated from a wing of the old Royal College in Port Louis and was later relocated to the newly built Mauritius Institute Building in 1885. The collection, primarily consisting of marine fauna and birds from the Mascarene Islands, laid the groundwork for the Natural History Museum we see today.
The Natural History Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of now-extinct species, including a well-preserved dodo skeleton, which is one of its most prized exhibits. This skeleton, discovered in 1904 by barber Etienne Thirioux, underscores the museum’s significance in the scientific and historical study of Mauritius’s unique biodiversity. The museum’s focus on the systematic collection, study, and documentation of local fauna and flora makes it a vital institution for understanding the region’s natural history.
In 2000, the museum was declared a National Museum, affirming its role in the preservation and promotion of Mauritius's natural heritage. Although admission to the museum is free, photography is not permitted inside, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the rich displays of marine creatures, extinct birds, and reptiles without distraction.
Established in 1826 by naturalists Julien Desjardins and Louis Bouton, the museum’s origins date back to the Desjardins Museum of African Modern Art, which was inaugurated on October 14, 1842. The museum initially operated from a wing of the old Royal College in Port Louis and was later relocated to the newly built Mauritius Institute Building in 1885. The collection, primarily consisting of marine fauna and birds from the Mascarene Islands, laid the groundwork for the Natural History Museum we see today.
The Natural History Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of now-extinct species, including a well-preserved dodo skeleton, which is one of its most prized exhibits. This skeleton, discovered in 1904 by barber Etienne Thirioux, underscores the museum’s significance in the scientific and historical study of Mauritius’s unique biodiversity. The museum’s focus on the systematic collection, study, and documentation of local fauna and flora makes it a vital institution for understanding the region’s natural history.
In 2000, the museum was declared a National Museum, affirming its role in the preservation and promotion of Mauritius's natural heritage. Although admission to the museum is free, photography is not permitted inside, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the rich displays of marine creatures, extinct birds, and reptiles without distraction.
4) Company Gardens
The Company Gardens in Port Louis is a haven of peace and rest amidst the bustling city. Located in the center of the city, in front of the Mauritius Institute, this garden is known for its gigantic trees that play strident Indian music, showcasing the preeminence of Hindi culture on the island. The garden's name comes from the fact that it formerly belonged to the India Company French. Initially a swamp, the place was transformed into a botanical park by Mahé de La Bourdonnais in 1735 and then repopulated with trees under British rule in 1828.
Today, the Company Gardens is a popular destination for people in Port Louis who go there to rest or have lunch under the shade of the trees. The park is also full of statues, busts, and monoliths dedicated to the heroes of Mauritius, as well as dating posters of poems and novels. Visitors can take a break and enjoy a drink before continuing to explore the city.
The Company Gardens is often referred to as the Central Park of Mauritius, despite being smaller and more restricted in size. The journey through the huge trees in the middle of a constantly active city leaves a lasting impression. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by two enormous totems representing dragons and Chinese lions that stand as the guardians of the garden. The setting is remarkable, with a union between the concrete of modernity and the greenery of nature.
Apart from the great men statues such as Adrien d'Épinay and Ti-Frère, visitors can also take pictures with century-old banyan trees, which are the last ones still existing in Mauritius and the Mascarene Islands. The northern part of the garden is also known for its tropical flower gardens, which emit a sweet floral scent. Visitors can stay in the shade of the big palm trees and admire the beautiful fountain and its cement dolphins.
Today, the Company Gardens is a popular destination for people in Port Louis who go there to rest or have lunch under the shade of the trees. The park is also full of statues, busts, and monoliths dedicated to the heroes of Mauritius, as well as dating posters of poems and novels. Visitors can take a break and enjoy a drink before continuing to explore the city.
The Company Gardens is often referred to as the Central Park of Mauritius, despite being smaller and more restricted in size. The journey through the huge trees in the middle of a constantly active city leaves a lasting impression. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by two enormous totems representing dragons and Chinese lions that stand as the guardians of the garden. The setting is remarkable, with a union between the concrete of modernity and the greenery of nature.
Apart from the great men statues such as Adrien d'Épinay and Ti-Frère, visitors can also take pictures with century-old banyan trees, which are the last ones still existing in Mauritius and the Mascarene Islands. The northern part of the garden is also known for its tropical flower gardens, which emit a sweet floral scent. Visitors can stay in the shade of the big palm trees and admire the beautiful fountain and its cement dolphins.
5) Port Louis Theatre
The Port Louis Municipal Theatre, one of the oldest playhouses in the southern hemisphere, holds a rich history that reflects the cultural evolution of Mauritius. The theater’s origins date back to the late 18th century, when Joseph Laglaine, a health officer on a French warship, first envisioned bringing theatrical performances to the island, then known as Isle de France.
In 1790, Laglaine succeeded in landing a troupe in Port Louis, but their efforts were soon thwarted by the smallpox epidemic of 1792, which led to the disbandment of the group. Despite this setback, Laglaine's passion for theater never waned. He rallied the surviving members and a few local amateur artists to stage performances in a newly constructed "Salle de Spectacle" in the Company’s Garden. However, this venue was destroyed in the cyclone of 1818, prompting Laglaine to champion the need for a new, permanent theater.
The land for the new theater was granted by General Hall, who was acting as Governor in the absence of Sir Robert Farquhar. This plot of land had a storied past, having been the site of an old market that was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1816. On September 27, 1820, Governor Farquhar laid the first stone of the new theater in a Freemason ritual, marking the beginning of its construction.
The architectural work was entrusted to Pierre Poujade, while Pierre Etienne Thuillier, an artist, was responsible for the interior decorations and finishing touches. The theater was inaugurated on June 11, 1822, and quickly became a cultural landmark in Port Louis, offering a venue for performances that enriched the island's artistic landscape.
Unfortunately, by the late 20th century, the theater had fallen into disrepair. Neglect and lack of maintenance over the years had left the once-grand building in a state of deterioration. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the government at the time did not prioritize its restoration, and the theater's condition worsened. The lack of attention to this vital piece of Mauritian heritage underscores the challenges faced in preserving the island's patrimony.
In 1790, Laglaine succeeded in landing a troupe in Port Louis, but their efforts were soon thwarted by the smallpox epidemic of 1792, which led to the disbandment of the group. Despite this setback, Laglaine's passion for theater never waned. He rallied the surviving members and a few local amateur artists to stage performances in a newly constructed "Salle de Spectacle" in the Company’s Garden. However, this venue was destroyed in the cyclone of 1818, prompting Laglaine to champion the need for a new, permanent theater.
The land for the new theater was granted by General Hall, who was acting as Governor in the absence of Sir Robert Farquhar. This plot of land had a storied past, having been the site of an old market that was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1816. On September 27, 1820, Governor Farquhar laid the first stone of the new theater in a Freemason ritual, marking the beginning of its construction.
The architectural work was entrusted to Pierre Poujade, while Pierre Etienne Thuillier, an artist, was responsible for the interior decorations and finishing touches. The theater was inaugurated on June 11, 1822, and quickly became a cultural landmark in Port Louis, offering a venue for performances that enriched the island's artistic landscape.
Unfortunately, by the late 20th century, the theater had fallen into disrepair. Neglect and lack of maintenance over the years had left the once-grand building in a state of deterioration. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the government at the time did not prioritize its restoration, and the theater's condition worsened. The lack of attention to this vital piece of Mauritian heritage underscores the challenges faced in preserving the island's patrimony.
6) Saint Louis Cathedral
Saint Louis Cathedral stands as one of the island's most historic and revered religious landmarks. Constructed in 1815 and elevated to cathedral status in 1847, it is a prominent example of Gothic architecture in Mauritius. Although the church's foundational plans were drawn up in 1736 and the land was officially confirmed in 1750, it was not until 1756 that the initial church structure was completed. This makes Saint Louis Cathedral a significant site of religious and historical importance, as a church has stood on this location since 1752.
The Cathedral has played a central role in the Catholic community of Mauritius. Each week, Catholic worshippers gather here for prayer and religious ceremonies, making it the most popular religious building on the island. The structure reflects the Gothic style with its intricate details and towering presence, embodying the architectural and spiritual heritage of the time.
Saint Louis Cathedral is also notable for its role as the burial site for several bishops. Following Catholic tradition, bishops are interred within the cathedral itself, and to date, six bishops, including Mgrs Hankinson, Meurin, O’Neil, Bilsborrow, Leen, and Cardinal Margéot, who was buried in July 2009, rest beneath the choir tiling. This practice underscores the cathedral's importance as a spiritual and historical repository for the island’s Catholic leaders.
The Cathedral has played a central role in the Catholic community of Mauritius. Each week, Catholic worshippers gather here for prayer and religious ceremonies, making it the most popular religious building on the island. The structure reflects the Gothic style with its intricate details and towering presence, embodying the architectural and spiritual heritage of the time.
Saint Louis Cathedral is also notable for its role as the burial site for several bishops. Following Catholic tradition, bishops are interred within the cathedral itself, and to date, six bishops, including Mgrs Hankinson, Meurin, O’Neil, Bilsborrow, Leen, and Cardinal Margéot, who was buried in July 2009, rest beneath the choir tiling. This practice underscores the cathedral's importance as a spiritual and historical repository for the island’s Catholic leaders.
7) Fort Adelaide
Fort Adelaide, also known as La Citadelle, is a significant symbol of early British rule in Mauritius. Built between 1834 and 1835 by Colonel Thomas Cunningham, the fort's construction faced challenges due to a labor shortage following the abolition of slavery. Initially, the British relied on apprentices, freed slaves, prisoners, and soldiers, but eventually, skilled workers were recruited from India to complete the project. Despite these difficulties, the fort was completed in 1840 and stands as a testament to the island's changing social landscape.
The fort was initially intended to defend Port Louis from potential invasions and suppress any local revolts, particularly in the tense atmosphere following the French Revolution of 1830. Located strategically on a hill overlooking the city, port, and surrounding mountains, Fort Adelaide was crucial for maintaining control. However, by the time it was finished, the situation in Mauritius had stabilized, and the fort was never used for its original military purpose.
Over time, Fort Adelaide became more of a symbol than a functional military site. It marked the transition from slavery to the era of Indian immigration, with its history closely tied to these significant shifts. The fort later served as a site for signaling important events and has since become a venue for cultural activities such as concerts and shows.
Today, Fort Adelaide is one of the few remaining forts from the British colonial period in Mauritius. Constructed from black basalt stones, it has been well-preserved and remains an important historical landmark. The fort stands as a reminder of Mauritius's complex past, reflecting the island's evolution during the British colonial era.
The fort was initially intended to defend Port Louis from potential invasions and suppress any local revolts, particularly in the tense atmosphere following the French Revolution of 1830. Located strategically on a hill overlooking the city, port, and surrounding mountains, Fort Adelaide was crucial for maintaining control. However, by the time it was finished, the situation in Mauritius had stabilized, and the fort was never used for its original military purpose.
Over time, Fort Adelaide became more of a symbol than a functional military site. It marked the transition from slavery to the era of Indian immigration, with its history closely tied to these significant shifts. The fort later served as a site for signaling important events and has since become a venue for cultural activities such as concerts and shows.
Today, Fort Adelaide is one of the few remaining forts from the British colonial period in Mauritius. Constructed from black basalt stones, it has been well-preserved and remains an important historical landmark. The fort stands as a reminder of Mauritius's complex past, reflecting the island's evolution during the British colonial era.
8) Jummah Mosque
The Jummah Mosque is a historically significant mosque that dates back to the 1850s. Initially, a house on the property was used as a temporary place of worship while the mosque was being constructed. In 1853, the mosque was consecrated, and it was initially known as the "Mosque of the Arabs" after its founders, who were mistakenly believed to be Arabs.
Over time, the Muslim community in Port-Louis grew, and the mosque needed to be expanded to accommodate more worshippers. Several lots around the mosque were purchased between 1857 and 1877 by Muslim merchants and donated to the mosque. The expansion works began in 1878 and were overseen by Jackaria Jan Mahomed, but disease and a shortage of construction supplies delayed the completion until 1895.
Today, the Jummah Mosque is an impressive blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. The mosque's design incorporates Moorish and Mughal influences, and it occupies an entire city block. The former Mosque of the Arabs has been integrated into the expanded building and serves as the main prayer hall. The prayer hall is illuminated by beautiful glass chandeliers.
One of the most interesting features of the Jummah Mosque is the Indian almond or badamia tree that stands in the middle of the courtyard. This tree was already present on the land when it was purchased in 1852, and it has remained an important part of the mosque's history and heritage.
The Jummah Mosque also has a unique historical significance, as it houses the remains of Jamal Shah, a pir from Kutch, India. His marble tomb is located next to the mosque, and it is a popular destination for visitors who come to pay their respects.
Over time, the Muslim community in Port-Louis grew, and the mosque needed to be expanded to accommodate more worshippers. Several lots around the mosque were purchased between 1857 and 1877 by Muslim merchants and donated to the mosque. The expansion works began in 1878 and were overseen by Jackaria Jan Mahomed, but disease and a shortage of construction supplies delayed the completion until 1895.
Today, the Jummah Mosque is an impressive blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. The mosque's design incorporates Moorish and Mughal influences, and it occupies an entire city block. The former Mosque of the Arabs has been integrated into the expanded building and serves as the main prayer hall. The prayer hall is illuminated by beautiful glass chandeliers.
One of the most interesting features of the Jummah Mosque is the Indian almond or badamia tree that stands in the middle of the courtyard. This tree was already present on the land when it was purchased in 1852, and it has remained an important part of the mosque's history and heritage.
The Jummah Mosque also has a unique historical significance, as it houses the remains of Jamal Shah, a pir from Kutch, India. His marble tomb is located next to the mosque, and it is a popular destination for visitors who come to pay their respects.
9) Chinatown Gate
Chinatown in Port Louis, is a cultural treasure nestled within the bustling capital city. Though smaller and less vibrant than Chinatowns in other parts of the world, this area holds a unique charm that showcases the rich Chinese heritage and contributions to Mauritian society. Spanning approximately 500 meters along the well-known Royal Road, Chinatown is a true cultural heritage site for Mauritius, with its entrance marked by the impressive "friendship" gate located just east of the Central Market. This gate stands as a symbol of the longstanding presence and influence of the Chinese community in the country, particularly the Hakka Chinese, who began arriving in 1826.
The roots of Chinatown trace back to the 18th century, when the first wave of Chinese immigrants, many of whom were voluntary migrants, settled in Port Louis. They brought with them skills in various trades, such as blacksmithing, carpentry, cobbling, and tailoring. Initially, most of the Chinese immigrants spoke Cantonese, but over time, the Hakka-speaking Chinese, primarily from Meixian in Canton, grew in number. By the mid-19th century, the Chinese population in the area had expanded significantly, with around 5,000 residents contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Chinatown.
Today, Chinatown is a living testament to the enduring influence of the Chinese community in Mauritius, even though they make up only 3% of the overall population. The area remains lively, especially during weekdays, as people engage in business and trade. The streets of Chinatown are filled with the sights and sounds of daily life, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry that has developed over the years.
One of the most enduring legacies of the Chinese community in Mauritius is its cuisine, which has become an integral part of the island's culinary culture. Dishes such as fried noodles, dumplings, chopsuey, and Peking duck are beloved by Mauritians of all backgrounds. The old shops in Chinatown offer a wide variety of goods, from toys and clothes to traditional medicines and Chinese spices. The aroma of authentic Chinese cakes and the vibrant atmosphere make Chinatown in Port Louis a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Mauritius.
The roots of Chinatown trace back to the 18th century, when the first wave of Chinese immigrants, many of whom were voluntary migrants, settled in Port Louis. They brought with them skills in various trades, such as blacksmithing, carpentry, cobbling, and tailoring. Initially, most of the Chinese immigrants spoke Cantonese, but over time, the Hakka-speaking Chinese, primarily from Meixian in Canton, grew in number. By the mid-19th century, the Chinese population in the area had expanded significantly, with around 5,000 residents contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Chinatown.
Today, Chinatown is a living testament to the enduring influence of the Chinese community in Mauritius, even though they make up only 3% of the overall population. The area remains lively, especially during weekdays, as people engage in business and trade. The streets of Chinatown are filled with the sights and sounds of daily life, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry that has developed over the years.
One of the most enduring legacies of the Chinese community in Mauritius is its cuisine, which has become an integral part of the island's culinary culture. Dishes such as fried noodles, dumplings, chopsuey, and Peking duck are beloved by Mauritians of all backgrounds. The old shops in Chinatown offer a wide variety of goods, from toys and clothes to traditional medicines and Chinese spices. The aroma of authentic Chinese cakes and the vibrant atmosphere make Chinatown in Port Louis a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Mauritius.
10) Central Market (must see)
The Port Louis Market is a vibrant and bustling marketplace located in the heart of Mauritius. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the local way of life and discovering the unique culture of the island.
The market is divided into several sections, each offering a different kind of product. The fruit and vegetable section is a colorful and aromatic display of locally grown produce, with a wide variety of tropical fruits and vegetables on offer. The meat and seafood section is equally impressive, with fresh catches from the Indian Ocean and locally reared meats.
The shopping mall upstairs is a great place to find souvenirs, with a wide range of locally made handicrafts, textiles, and other artifacts available at very reasonable prices. Whether you're looking for a unique piece of jewelry, a hand-carved wooden figurine, or a brightly colored sarong, you're sure to find something to suit your taste at the Port Louis Market.
Foodies will love the food section of the market, which is a veritable feast for the senses. Here, you can sample some of the island's most delicious local dishes, including Dholl Puri, Briani, Halim, and many other traditional Mauritian dishes. The food is cheap, fresh, and delicious, and the atmosphere is lively and convivial, making it a great place to meet locals and other travelers.
The market is divided into several sections, each offering a different kind of product. The fruit and vegetable section is a colorful and aromatic display of locally grown produce, with a wide variety of tropical fruits and vegetables on offer. The meat and seafood section is equally impressive, with fresh catches from the Indian Ocean and locally reared meats.
The shopping mall upstairs is a great place to find souvenirs, with a wide range of locally made handicrafts, textiles, and other artifacts available at very reasonable prices. Whether you're looking for a unique piece of jewelry, a hand-carved wooden figurine, or a brightly colored sarong, you're sure to find something to suit your taste at the Port Louis Market.
Foodies will love the food section of the market, which is a veritable feast for the senses. Here, you can sample some of the island's most delicious local dishes, including Dholl Puri, Briani, Halim, and many other traditional Mauritian dishes. The food is cheap, fresh, and delicious, and the atmosphere is lively and convivial, making it a great place to meet locals and other travelers.
11) Aapravasi Ghat (must see)
Aapravasi Ghat is a historic site of profound significance in the history of migration. Known also as the Immigration Depot or Coolie Ghat, it was the focal point of the indentured labor migration system that operated between 1849 and 1923. During this period, Aapravasi Ghat served as the main processing center for over half a million Indian laborers who were brought to Mauritius and other British colonies to work on plantations. This massive movement of people had a lasting impact on the demographic and cultural landscapes of many former British colonies, including Mauritius, where a substantial portion of the population has Indian ancestry.
The site originally comprised a complex of buildings designed to manage the intake and processing of these laborers. However, due to rapid infrastructural development in the mid-20th century, only a few remnants of the original structures remain today. These surviving stone buildings are now protected under Mauritian national heritage legislation, preserving a vital piece of the island's history.
The Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund oversees the conservation and restoration of this important historical site. Efforts are underway to restore the remaining buildings to their state from the 1860s, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and understand the historical significance of Aapravasi Ghat. In recognition of its global importance, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, highlighting its role in the history of migration and its impact on the cultural development of Mauritius.
The site originally comprised a complex of buildings designed to manage the intake and processing of these laborers. However, due to rapid infrastructural development in the mid-20th century, only a few remnants of the original structures remain today. These surviving stone buildings are now protected under Mauritian national heritage legislation, preserving a vital piece of the island's history.
The Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund oversees the conservation and restoration of this important historical site. Efforts are underway to restore the remaining buildings to their state from the 1860s, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and understand the historical significance of Aapravasi Ghat. In recognition of its global importance, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, highlighting its role in the history of migration and its impact on the cultural development of Mauritius.
12) Mauritius Postal Museum
The Mauritius Postal Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the island's postal heritage. Housed in a charming 18th-century stone building that originally served as a hospital, the museum is now a National Heritage site dedicated to preserving the rich history of Mauritius' postal services. This modest yet significant edifice, with its construction beginning in 1865 and completion in 1868, symbolizes the evolution and advancement of communication on the island.
The museum's mission extends beyond simply showcasing stamps; it plays a crucial role in promoting philately and preserving Mauritius' locally-made stamps, which are esteemed globally. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing major milestones in the history of postal services in Mauritius, from their early origins to the modern era. The museum's collection includes rare and valuable stamps, as well as artifacts that illustrate the development of postal communication both locally and internationally.
Located within the Port Louis Waterfront area, the museum stands as a testament to the island's commitment to enhancing communication. The building itself, with its historical significance and role in improving connectivity, adds depth to the museum’s exhibitions. The Postal Museum not only serves as a repository for historical postal memorabilia but also as a cultural landmark, reflecting the broader efforts to advance communication infrastructure in Mauritius.
The museum's mission extends beyond simply showcasing stamps; it plays a crucial role in promoting philately and preserving Mauritius' locally-made stamps, which are esteemed globally. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing major milestones in the history of postal services in Mauritius, from their early origins to the modern era. The museum's collection includes rare and valuable stamps, as well as artifacts that illustrate the development of postal communication both locally and internationally.
Located within the Port Louis Waterfront area, the museum stands as a testament to the island's commitment to enhancing communication. The building itself, with its historical significance and role in improving connectivity, adds depth to the museum’s exhibitions. The Postal Museum not only serves as a repository for historical postal memorabilia but also as a cultural landmark, reflecting the broader efforts to advance communication infrastructure in Mauritius.
13) Le Caudan Waterfront (must see)
Le Caudan Waterfront is a modern shopping mall that offers a wide range of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Visitors can find the latest fashion shops and trends, a popular arts and craft market, known as the Craft Market, specialty shops selling unique local goods such as replica ships, Indian garments, locally fabricated jewelry, or art paintings from local artists. The shopping center also boasts cinemas, a marina, a bookstore, restaurants and cafes, a museum, hosting two of the rarest stamps in the world, a casino and tax-free shopping options for tourists.
Despite being the first shopping mall on the island, Le Caudan Waterfront has been able to keep up with the trends and maintain its allure as a modern waterfront mall. Visitors can admire the workings going on in the port as large container and cruise ships make their way in and out.
Despite being the first shopping mall on the island, Le Caudan Waterfront has been able to keep up with the trends and maintain its allure as a modern waterfront mall. Visitors can admire the workings going on in the port as large container and cruise ships make their way in and out.
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