Citadel Fort (Fort Adelaide) - History, Visit & More

Fort Adelaide: Guardian of Port Louis' History and Culture

Perched on a hill in Port Louis, Mauritius, La Citadelle de Port Louis, or Fort Adelaide, stands as a sentinel over the capital.

This fortress, with its black stone walls, dates back to 1830 and was constructed under British rule by Sir Charles Colville.

History & Origins: A Fortress with a Purpose

Fort Adelaide was built to protect Port Louis from invasions and control local revolts amid racial tensions.

Completed in 1840 and named after Adelaide, wife of King William IV, it stands intact, unlike many British-era forts.

It symbolises the end of slavery and the start of Indian immigration, constructed by a diverse labour force.

Construction and Symbolism

The Citadel symbolises the start of Indian immigration and the end of slavery. It was constructed amid tensions from the French Revolution of 1830 and the recent British takeover of Mauritius.

To build Fort Adelaide, the government initially relied on apprentices, freed slaves, prisoners, and a few soldiers. However, the lack of skilled labour led to the recruitment of stonemasons, masons, labourers, and other artisans from India in 1837 to complete the fort.

The diverse population included 8,000 whites, 15,000 coloured people, and 65,000 slaves. With only 1,200 soldiers and 100 civilians, the British built the fort to guard against potential French attacks and local revolts.

Fort Adelaide Today: A Cultural Hub

Fort Adelaide isn’t just a historical monument; it offers a variety of experiences:

Events & Performances: Attend concerts, shows, and other events.
Museum & Art Gallery: Learn about the history and view local art
360º Views: Take in the panoramic scenery of China Town, Champ de Mars and mountains
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Additional Tours with Visit to Fort Adelaide You May Like

Heritage Tour: Dive into Mauritius’ past with visits to historical estates, ancient sugar mills, and other significant heritage sites.
North Tour: Explore Port Louis and other northern attractions, including a visit to Fort Adelaide, offering a comprehensive view of the region.
Port Louis Discovery Tour: Discover the best of Port Louis with a focus on historical sites, local markets, and the iconic Fort Adelaide.