9 Best Historical Places In Mauritius: Mauritius, the island nation, stands out as a globally favored honeymoon destination. Renowned for its pristine beaches, diverse flora and fauna, and captivating landscapes, Mauritius embodies a multicultural spirit with influences from Indian, African, French, and Chinese heritage.
The island’s tropical climate served as a magnet for European exploration, shaping a noteworthy history marked by Dutch, French, and British rule from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries.
Exploring the must-visit historical sites in Mauritius provides a profound insight into the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
9 Best Historical Places In Mauritius
For your Mauritius vacation, be sure to include these historical sites on your checklist. Uncover the enigmatic and captivating tales behind these ancient heritages.
1. Baie de l’Arsenal Or Arsenal Bay
Situated in the northern part of the country, Arsenal Bay houses the remnants of a French Arsenal, constituting one of Mauritius’ less-explored historical sites.
In the village of Arsenal, a French foundry once thrived, crafting cannons and various military provisions. Tragically, in 1774, a devastating explosion claimed the lives of approximately 300 slaves, leading to the destruction of the foundry.
Today, the ruins stand as a testament to this historical event. Visitors staying at Hotel Maritim have the opportunity to explore these grounds and witness the remnants of the past.
2. La Route Du Thé (Bois Cheri)
Bois Cheri stands as a renowned tea plantation, ranking among the top three highlights on La Route du Thé. Situated approximately twelve kilometers from the well-known Rivière des Anguilles, these expansive tea gardens span an area of about 250 hectares.
Embarking on a guided tour of the premises provides an in-depth exploration of the plantation’s history and operations, rendering it an essential stop among Mauritius’ historical sites.
An exhibition space on-site beautifully unfolds centuries of the area’s rich history. Concluding the tour, visitors have the delightful opportunity to sample a variety of teas.
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3. St. Aubin House
Ranked among the top historical destinations in Mauritius, the St. Aubin plantation boasts a rich history spanning almost two centuries. Although the factory was relocated in the seventies, and sugar is no longer the primary focus, the expansive grounds now host a rum distillery.
The estate encompasses a vanilla house, spice garden, and a tropical garden. A guided tour leads visitors through various parts of the estate, including the renowned sugar factory.
Enhancing the experience, a five-course Mauritian lunch is served, highlighting flavors from palm, mango, and pineapple, setting a delightful mood.
4. Beau Plan Sugar Mill
Serving as both a sugar factory and a museum, Beau Plan secures its spot on the list of premier historical sites in Mauritius. The exhibition here weaves together the narrative of sugar, intricately connected with the island’s history, the rum trade, and the legacy of slavery.
The guided tour typically spans two to three hours, delving into the factory’s origins, which date back to 1797, and its closure at the turn of the century in 1999. The museum offers videos and interactive sessions, providing a deeper understanding of the location’s history.
To conclude the tour on a sweet note, visitors have the opportunity to taste approximately fifteen types of sugar, all of which originated in Mauritius itself.
5. Martello Tower
Constructed in the 1800s by the British as a defense against potential French interference and slave uprisings, the five towers hold historical significance.
The tower situated at La Preneuse has been repurposed into a museum where experts elaborate on the remarkable architecture of these structures. Impressively, each tower boasts walls that are three meters thick and is equipped with copper cannons capable of shooting up to a range of about 2 kilometers.
6. Eureka House
Originally constructed in the early 1800s as a stately mansion, this site has been transformed into a museum, offering a glimpse into the colonial history of the country.
The architectural features of the house reflect tropical design, featuring around 109 doors and numerous rooms strategically designed to maintain a cool interior, even during sweltering summers.
The museum showcases a plethora of antiques, furniture pieces, and maps dating back to the French East India Company era. With servant quarters and kitchens adding to its historical charm, this is undeniably a must-visit historical building in Mauritius.
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7. Le Morne
Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this location stands out as one of the most renowned historical landmarks in Mauritius. Simply put, it is a mountain situated in the southwest of the island that served as a refuge for numerous slaves who dared to escape from their masters in the past.
The perilous and inaccessible terrain at the top of the mountain allowed the escaped slaves to establish their own communities, finding shelter in the caves.
This place stands as a powerful symbol of their struggle for freedom and the indomitable human spirit.
8. Matthew Flinders Monument
Erected a mere 15 years ago in 2003, this stands as one of the relatively recent historical monuments in Mauritius. It is a tribute to Matthew Flinders, the English cartographer and explorer credited with identifying Australia as a continent.
The monument commemorates the bicentennial of his arrival in the country. Interestingly, upon his initial arrival on the island, Flinders was detained for six years due to the ongoing war between England and France.
9. Citadel Fort
Popularly known as Fort Adelaide, this military structure was constructed by the British in the nineteenth century. From its elevated position, visitors can relish panoramic views of the capital, Port Louis, along with the harbor.
The erstwhile barracks have been transformed into boutiques, providing an opportunity for visitors to purchase souvenirs.
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