Port Louis: Discover Market History and Cultural Heritage

Aapravasi Ghat is in the Port Louis District. The Central Market, also known as the Bazaar, is close to Port Louis. Together, these two places point to different aspects of the history of Mauritius.

Aapravasi Ghat and the History of Migration

Aapravasi Ghat is the remains of an immigration depot built in 1849 and is connected with the beginnings of the modern diaspora of indentured workers. The year of construction anchors the depot in a specific year, while its connection to the diaspora opens up a broader historical perspective. If you are exploring the history of Mauritius, a specific architectural remnant and a far-reaching history of migration come together here.

The Central Market and Its Architecture

The Central Market was inaugurated by Governor Gomm in 1844 and is considered the oldest market in Mauritius. Its architecture is defined by three arched entrance portals made of stone and wrought iron with floral decorations. The market’s inauguration took place just five years before the depot was built; however, the two historical references are distinct: one concerns market history, the other the diaspora of indentured workers.

Heritage Trails Around Aapravasi Ghat

Close to Port Louis, the Heritage Trails around the World Heritage Site of Aapravasi Ghat offer guided visits to National Monuments and historic buildings. The trails also provide an overview of important moments in the history of Mauritius. In this way, they connect individual places and buildings with a broader historical context.

Guided visits are available on request and by booking; the phone number is 217 7770. A guided group can have no more than 20 people. If you are planning a visit, confirm the arrangements with the provider in advance.

Mauritius: Other Historical Perspectives

On Mauritius, the cultural landscape of Le Morne lies at the southwestern tip of the island. On Mauritius, the cultural landscape of Le Morne was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on 10 July 2008 and illustrates the history of slavery in Mauritius and the quest for freedom in the 17th and 18th centuries. On Mauritius, the mountain served as a fortress and refuge for escaped enslaved people; physical and oral evidence documents this use. On Mauritius, Vieux Grand Port is considered the site of the island’s first human settlement.

On Mauritius, Dhollpuri and Roti are part of the culinary landscape; they are among Mauritians’ favourite dishes. Alongside the historical sites, the island’s food culture and traditions therefore stand as distinct topics.

Natural Areas on Mauritius

On Mauritius, Blue Bay Marine Park is home to a species-rich marine ecosystem with diverse marine fauna and flora, particularly a varied coral community. On Mauritius, Bras d’Eau National Park covers 497.2 hectares and is predominantly planted with mahogany, araucaria, tecoma and eucalyptus. Mare Sarcelle, with its mangroves, native plant species and some migratory bird species, is part of Bras d’Eau National Park on Mauritius. On Mauritius, the Coq des Bois Trail runs through the forest and ends at Mares Chevrettes.

Getting Around the Island

Port Louis is the only port on the island of Mauritius. Bus services operate in various regions of Mauritius and make it possible to travel to almost every place on the island. Check the current routes and timetables for a specific journey.

Discover more destinations: Les Salines, Port Louis, Grand Port, Plaines Wilhems, Rodrigues, Pamplemousses, Savanne, Flacq.

Back to the main travel overview: Mauritius.