The history of Mauritius in 6 landmark sites

1. The Dutch Landing Monument, Ferney

This is where it all started. In 1598, Dutch sailors arrived on the uninhabited island's southeast coast, naming it after Prince Maurice of Nassau. For years, it served as a key stopover for their ships. At the time, the dodo bird was one of the land’s unique endemic species. Its extinction is closely tied to the Dutch presence. Today, only the name Mauritius remains as a lasting echo of that period. 

Dutch arrival in Mauritius (1598)—a historic moment that shaped the island’s destiny and led to the dodo’s extinction, now a national symbol.

2. The Frederik Henrik Museum, Vieux Grand Port 

The French claimed Mauritius in 1715, establishing their first settlement atop the remnants of a Dutch fort in Vieux Grand Port. Later, in 1810, its bay became the stage for the Battle of Grand Port, where French forces achieved Napoleon’s only naval victory against the British. But their celebration was short-lived. Four months later, the British seized the island. The Frederik Hendrik Museum walks you through this pivotal era.

Frederik Hendrik Museum, Mauritius—preserving the legacy of Dutch colonial history, archaeology, and the island’s first settlement (1638-1710)

3. Le Morne Brabant, Le Morne Peninsula

Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a powerful symbol of resilience. The rugged terrain of this majestic mountain was a refuge for escaped African slaves during the colonial era. Adding to this narrative, the Intercontinental Slavery Museum, in Port-Louis, is dedicated to preserving the memory of the hundreds of thousands who endured slavery.

Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius—a UNESCO heritage site, echoing the spirit of maroon slaves through the vibrant beats of Sega music and dance.

 4. Aapravasi Ghat, Port-Louis

The Aapravasi Ghat Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marks the arrival of over 450,000 Indian indentured labourers from 1834 to 1910, to replace slaves in the sugar plantations. Their hope for a better life shaped our island’s identity. The Immigration Museum, at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Moka, further honours their legacy through a large collection of archives and artefacts.

A historical depiction of Aapravasi Ghat, Mauritius—where indentured laborers arrived in the 19th century, shaping the island’s heritage.

5. Chinatown, Port-Louis

Arriving as traders in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Chinese brought along rich traditions and a spirit of enterprise. Over generations, they have become an integral part of our multicultural identity. Today, Chinatown is a bustling hub, filled with colourful shops, pagodas, and authentic cuisine. 

Chinatown, Port Louis—rich in Mauritian-Chinese heritage, vibrant street markets, and historic architecture, blending tradition with modern life.

6. Champ de Mars, Port-Louis

On March 12, 1968, the oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere, built in the early 19th century, hosted our first Independence Day celebration, under a proud Mauritian flag, to the sound of “Motherland”, our national anthem. The Champ de Mars was transformed into a symbol of unity and freedom, in the capital city of Port-Louis. 

Champ de Mars, Mauritius—established in 1812, the oldest horse racing track in the Southern Hemisphere, rich in history and passion

Words in Motion at Sugar Beach Mauritius is more than just its breathtaking beaches—it’s a living testament to resilience, diversity, and connection. Uncover the rich cultural heritage of our island and dive into tales that shaped its spirit with Rafiki, a multi-talented Mauritian artist and storyteller.  Free Admission for Sunlife residents. Explore more unique experiences offered at Sunlife

Disclaimer:

All images used in this log are AI-generated and do not depict real people, places, or events. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or real-world locations is purely coincidental.