This weekend, as part of the international day for monuments and sites, the general public was given access to several sites and monuments of Mauritius.
The country is mostly known for its beaches and nature but I decided that this was the opportunity to rediscover the island and at the same time help the work of every individual working everyday to advocate the importance of history and culture at a national level.
I therefore decided went on a trip in order to learn more about my national cultural heritage and I will describe below some of the treasures I discovered.
North
- SSR Botanical Garden
This is one the the places that can make you go back to your childhood as you can feel so at peace whether you want to relax under the century trees or walk through the garden.
The water lilies and nenuphars are among the main attractions and if you are interested in the fauna and flora, I would recommend to use the help of guides who know every inch of the park.
I heard one of them talking about the “4 spices tree” and I personally learned a lot.
I do guarantee that nature lovers won’t see time fly.
- Chateau de Labourdonnais
This place is know for its overall beauty which includes a piece of architecture with the Chateau itself but also the garden in which one can see exotic plants combined with spices and fruits.
For amateurs of local products, this place known also as “the Domaine de Labourdonnais” is well know for it’s rum, fruit paste, sorbets, juice and jams among others. These are also ideal for gifts and are always a catch … at least according to my colleagues ?
Oh and did I say anything about the restaurant? For those who want to have a taste at our local cuisine in this picturesque place do not hesitate to book in advance
South
- National History Museum
Found in Mahebourg this is one of the first places I visited many years ago during my school trip.
I thus really thought I knew the place but I was amazed that my souvenirs did not match with the current picture, mainly because they were from some decades ago. Proof that even history and memories need some refreshing at some point.
Reaching there 15 minutes before closing did not give much time for proper visit this time but I did found a unique piece of our history outside, the Governor’s Coach
Mauritius railway system lasted for a whole century (1864-1964) and while we are today on our way for a light railway system, I do think it is interesting for newer generations to know more about what happened before our time.
I was able to get a clearer picture of our railway system at… the postal museum since Post Office stations were often found on the railway tracks.
Unfortunately, I could not visit all the sites but this will give me the opportunity for further trips in history in the future.
