National Historical Naval Museum | Mahebourg

Information

Landmark: National Historical Naval Museum
City: Mahebourg
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa

National Historical Naval Museum, Mahebourg, Mauritius, Africa

The National History Museum, also commonly known as the Mahebourg Naval Museum, is a primary historical site located in the southeastern village of Mahébourg, Mauritius. It is housed in the Château Gheude (or Maison Robillard), a French colonial mansion dating back to approximately 1772.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is a two-story colonial estate built in the "Maison de Maître" style, featuring wide verandas, white walls, and dark wooden trimmings. It is set within a sprawling 12-acre park filled with ancient pine trees on the banks of the La Chaux River. Inside, the rooms are characterized by high ceilings, period furniture, and creaking wooden floors, creating an "old world" atmosphere. A notable exterior feature is a large British cannon salvaged from a shipwreck, positioned near the entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is located on the Royal Road at the northern entrance of Mahébourg.

Access: It is approximately 6 km (10 minutes) from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.

Transport: Easily accessible via buses from the Mahebourg bus station or taxis from the airport/Blue Bay area.

Parking: Ample free parking is available within the museum gates.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building is historically significant as the site where both the French and British commanders (Baron Victor Duperré and Sir Nesbit Willoughby) were treated side-by-side for their injuries following the Battle of Grand Port in 1810. Originally the residence of the Robillard family, it was purchased by the government in 1947 and opened as a museum in 1950. The grounds preserve rare endemic plant life and provide a scenic view of the river.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Battle of Grand Port: Detailed exhibits including maps, paintings, and weaponry from the only naval battle won by Napoleon's fleet over the British.

Shipwreck Relics: Artefacts from famous wrecks such as the HMS Magicienne and the Saint Géran, including cannons, porcelain, and wine bottles.

Extinct Species: The museum houses a rare, near-complete skeleton of the Dodo and bones of extinct giant tortoises.

Colonial Artifacts: Display of 18th-century furniture, including the bed of Governor Mahé de Labourdonnais, and palanquins used for transport.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Museum Sections: The ground floor focuses on maritime history and naval battles, while the first floor houses colonial furniture and artifacts from the Dutch, French, and British periods.

Garden: The extensive grounds include a replica of a traditional Mauritian village settlement.

Facilities: Public toilets and a small boutique are on-site. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum.

Connectivity: Reliable 4G/5G cellular signals.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 09:00 to 16:00, on Wednesdays from 11:00 to 16:00, and on Sundays/Public Holidays from 09:00 to 12:00. It is best to visit during weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.

Facts & Legends

The Battle of Grand Port, heavily featured in the museum, is the only French naval victory inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Another popular legend involves the wreck of the Saint Géran (relics of which are on display), which inspired the famous romantic tragedy Paul et Virginie by Bernardin de Saint-Pierre.