“Museums are the custodians of epiphanies.” – George Lois. Nestled in the picturesque town of Mahébourg, the Mahebourg Museum, officially known as the National History Museum of Mauritius, stands as a beacon of the island’s rich colonial heritage. Set within the historic Gheude Castle, a stunning French colonial mansion built around 1770, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time. As you explore its lush, pine-covered grounds and meticulously curated exhibits, you will uncover the profound stories of Mauritius’ naval battles, colonial past, and extinct species. This museum is not just a repository of artifacts but a living narrative of the island’s vibrant history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
About Mahebourg Museum
Image Credit: Ashish Bhatnagar for Wikimedia Commons
The National History Museum of Mauritius, located in Mahébourg, offers a fascinating journey through Mauritius’ colonial history. Housed in the historic Gheude Castle, a stunning French colonial mansion built around 1770, the museum sits on the banks of La Chaux River, surrounded by a lush park of pine trees. The mansion, also known as Gheude Castle, was originally owned by the de Robillard family, with Mr. Jean de Robillard, the commander of the Grand Port district, being its first notable resident. Over the years, it housed several prominent French settlers. In 1947, the Mauritius government purchased the property and transformed it into a Naval and Historical Museum. The museum was further enriched with the inauguration of the Dutch Section by a descendant of Maurits Van Nassau, who named Mauritius in 1598. Today, the museum preserves and showcases the rich naval and colonial history of Mauritius, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s storied past.
Location: Mahébourg, Mauritius
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays. Closed on Tuesdays.
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Mahebourg Museum: What To See
Image Credit: Ashish Bhatnagar for Wikimedia Commons
When visiting the National History Museum of Mauritius, also known as the Mahebourg Museum, there is an array of captivating exhibits to explore. Nestled within a 12-acre garden, the museum is a treasure trove of historical artefacts and natural beauty. Begin your visit by strolling through the garden, where quaint village house reproductions set a charming scene. Inside, the ground floor highlights the monumental naval battle of 1810 at Vieux Grand Port through detailed paintings and relics like cannons, swords, and cannonballs. Notable artifacts include a bell recovered from the wreck of the St. Geran and memorabilia from the ship Trevessa. The museum is divided into British, French, and Dutch sections upstairs. The British section features slavery artefacts, pirate treasures, and early British coinage. The French section boasts household items from Governor Mahe de Labourdonnais, along with early maps and model ships. The Dutch section, inaugurated in 1998, showcases bones of the extinct dodo and giant tortoises, reflecting the Dutch colonial era. Each section offers a unique glimpse into the rich and diverse history about Mahebourg Museum and Mauritius, making it a must-visit.
Location: Mahébourg, Mauritius
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays. Closed on Tuesdays.
Mahebourg Museum Opening Hours and Free Entry
Image Credit: Ashish Bhatnagar for Wikimedia Commons
The Mahebourg Museum offers visitors a chance to delve into Mauritius’ rich history without any financial burden, as there is no Mahebourg Museum entry fee. This makes it an accessible destination for everyone interested in exploring the island’s colonial past. The Mahebourg museum opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and on Sundays and public holidays, the Mahebourg museum opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. However, it remains closed on Tuesdays, ensuring the staff can maintain the exhibits and the historic site. Conveniently located off the main road as you enter Mahebourg, the museum is just a 10-minute drive from the airport. Remember, while the museum encourages exploration, photography inside the museum is not permitted, preserving the integrity of its artefacts.
Location: Mahébourg, Mauritius
Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays. It is closed on Tuesdays.
Suggested Read: Places For Photography In Mauritius
Places To Visit Near Mahebourg Museum
There are plethora of places to visit near Mahebourg museum, Here is a well curated list of captivating places near Mahebourg museum to mae your visit memorable.
1. The Waterfront
Image Credit: Caudan Waterfront for Wikimedia Commons
Mahebourg’s waterfront is a must-visit destination in Mahebourg, offering a unique charm with its red-brick pavement, making it an ideal spot for a stroll or a peaceful sit by the ocean. Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, the waterfront provides stunning views of the private islet “Mouchoir Rouge” and the distant silhouette of La Montagne du Lion. Don’t miss walking to the end of the beautiful wooden pier, which ends with a kiosk and offers a superb view of the lagoon. For a vibrant local experience, visit at the end of the year to witness the annual pirogue race, the “Regatta,” a tradition dating back to the 19th century, showcasing a spectacular array of colors and local culture.
Location: Mahebourg Waterfront, Mahébourg
Timings: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon
2. Rault Biscuit Factory
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When visiting Mahebourg, a stop at the Rault Biscuit Factory is a must. Established in 1870, this factory produces 100% Mauritian biscuits made from cassava using a secret family recipe preserved for over 150 years. The best time to visit is in the morning when you can enjoy a guided tour, ending with a delightful tasting of the biscuits paired with Mauritian tea in the picturesque garden. This charming experience not only offers a taste of local heritage but also the opportunity to purchase these unique biscuits as a souvenir. The factory’s quaint shop ensures you can take a piece of Mauritian tradition home.
Location: Near Mahebourg, Mauritius
Timings: Morning for guided tours
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3. Blue Bay Beach
Image Credit: James Emery for Wikimedia Commons
After exploring Mahebourg Museum, head to the nearby chic village of Blue Bay. Just a few minutes away, Blue Bay boasts one of the most beautiful public beaches on the island, perfect for a relaxing day. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Blue Bay Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling. You can encounter numerous colourful fish close to the shore. For diving enthusiasts, Scuba World Diving Mauritius offers guided exploration dives to one of the top 10 diving sites in the lagoon, where you can marvel at fish, turtles, and impressive marine caves.
Location: Blue Bay, Mauritius
Timings: Early morning or late afternoon
4. Conservation and Wildlife Near Mahebourg Museum
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Another must-do activity around Mahebourg Museum is an excursion to Île aux Aigrettes. Located less than 1km off the coast of Pointe d’Esny, this small, round islet is a protected natural reserve home to several endemic species of animals and plants. Visiting Île aux Aigrettes offers a rare opportunity to observe species like the Pink Pigeon, the Mauritius Fody, the Telfair’s Skink, and the Aldabra Giant Tortoise in their natural habitat. Access to the island is strictly regulated, and tours can only be conducted with a guide who will explain the island’s history and conservation program. To visit, head to Pointe Jérôme Embarkation Point, where you can easily park your car in the sandy parking area opposite the reception. The best time to visit is during the more excellent parts of the day, either in the morning or late afternoon, to fully enjoy the natural beauty and the informative guided tour.
Location: Île aux Aigrettes, near Pointe d’Esny
Timings: Cooler parts of the day
Further Read: Goodlands In Mauritius
With this ultimate travel guide to Mahebourg Museum, you can plan your trip to Mauritius for the fun. The museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and should be on your itinerary as well. Other than exploring Mahebourg Museum, make sure to venture out to nearby attractions for a complete experience.
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Cover Image Credit: Ashish Bhatnagar for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Mahebourg Museum
What is the Mahebourg Museum?
The National History Museum, officially known as the Mahebourg Museum is a historical museum located in Mahebourg, Mauritius which offers the visitors a comprehensive exploration of Mauritius' colonial history.
What is the Mahebourg Museum entry fee?
To explore Mauritius' colonial past, Mahebourg Museum charges no entry fee. It offers free admission to all visitors.
What are the opening hours of the Mahebourg Museum?
Visit Mahebourg Museum from 9:00 in the morning till 4:00 in the evening from Monday to Saturday and is open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays and closed on all Tuesdays for maintenance.
What is the history behind the Gheude Castle?
Built around 1770, the Gheude Castle was originally owned by the de Robillard family and was then purchased by the Mauritius government in 1947 and converted into a Museum.
How to reach the Mahebourg Museum?
Reaching Mahebourg Museum is very easy and convenient. It is a 10-minute drive from the airport and is easily accessible through cabs and local taxis.
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