National History Museum of Mauritius, Mahébourg

Explore the 18th-Century Colonial Mansion aka Mahebourg Naval Museum

The National History Museum of Mauritius, also known as the Historical Naval Museum, is located in the historic town of Mahébourg.

Nestled in an 18th-century colonial mansion, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Mauritius' history, from its early days of discovery to the colonial era. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike!

Origins of the Mahebourg Naval and History Museum

• 1772: Château Gheude (Maison Robillard) is built as a Creole building, now part of Mauritius' heritage.
• 1810: Used as a field hospital during the Battle of Grand Port.
• 1950: The house becomes the National History Museum in Mahébourg, showcasing the island's maritime history with relics from the Museum of Naval Relics and the Museum of Historical Memorabilia.
• 2000: The museum is renamed to reflect its broader collection and scope, featuring a diverse range of artefacts.

List of Key Exhibits

The Museum consists of three floors, two of which are accessible to the public. There are various sections where you can learn about the different colonisation periods of Mauritius including the remnants of the great Naval Battle of Vieux Grand Port.

In addition, you will also get to see exquisite artefacts of many other ships wrecks such as of Pieter Both (the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies).

Here's a list of things you'll find at the museum:

1. Nearly complete skeleton of a dodo
2. Bones of an extinct species of Giant Tortoises
3. Old maps
4. Weapons
5. Artefacts salvaged from shipwrecks and naval battles
6. Collection of old coins
7. Colonial-era furniture
8. Ming-era porcelain
9. Reconstructed colonial village in a 12-acre garden

About the Village of Mahebourg - The Former Capital of Mauritius

Formerly the capital of the Mauritius, Mahébourg is nestled in the southeast of the island. While it is home to the island's only international airport, it remains less frequented by tourists compared to the northern towns.

Visitors can enjoy relaxing on white sandy beaches, exploring a collection of colonial buildings, visiting the Rault Biscuit Factory, shopping at the Mahébourg Market, discovering the Blue Bay Marine Park, embarking on cruises to Île aux Aigrettes, and savouring delicious seafood specialities, among other attractions.

Book this tour

Practical Info

The suggested duration of the museum visit is between 1- 2 hours.

Opening Hours

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 09h00- 16h00
• Wednesday: 11h00- 16h00
• Sundays & Public Holidays: 09h00- 12h00

Book your visit here and start your historical adventure in Mahebourg today!