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Old General Post Office Port Louis

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Old General Post Office Port Louis (Mauritius)

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The Old General Post Office in Port Louis is one of the most distinguished historical structures in Mauritius, standing as a prime example of Victorian colonial architecture. Constructed between 1865 and 1870, the building was crafted from local basalt stone blocks, giving it a robust and enduring appearance that has withstood over a century of maritime exposure. Its design features elegant arched windows and symmetrical stonework characteristic of British public buildings from the mid-19th century. For nearly 100 years, it served as the nerve center for the island's communications before being converted into the Mauritius Postal Museum. Located near the harbor and the Aapravasi Ghat UNESCO World Heritage site, it remains a vital link to the country's maritime and administrative history. Today, the museum inside showcases rare philatelic treasures and antique telecommunications equipment, documenting the fascinating journey of the postal service from the era of sailing ships to the modern digital age.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272827272524232323242526
Rain mm128116122674129262124292944

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The old General Post Office in Port Louis is a distinctive stone building at the harbour. It can be viewed from the outside; the interior may not be open to the public or may serve other purposes.
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Typical hours
Since the building is no longer used as a post office, there are no regular visiting hours for the public. The exterior can be viewed at any time, best seen in daylight.
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Photography
Photography of the Victorian façade is allowed from the pavement. The architecture with stonework and arches has beautiful details for architectural photography.
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Time needed
A brief viewing of the exterior façade takes about five to ten minutes. Combined with a walk along the harbour, you can allow 20 minutes.
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Combine with
The old post office is close to the Port Louis waterfront and the Citadel. A walking tour can connect these sights with the Champ de Mars.
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Getting there
The building is located in the harbour district of Port Louis, near the cruise terminal. It is within walking distance from the city centre, and buses and taxis stop nearby.
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Insider tip
Pay attention to the decorative details of the façade, such as the round arches and masonry. An early morning visit avoids crowds and provides good light for photographs.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.15840, 57.49970

Facts

  • Built between 1864 and 1870
  • Opened on December 21, 1870
  • National monument since 1958
  • Houses the museum since 2001
  • Victorian architectural style
  • Located on Quay Street

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Sights in the town Old General Post Office Port Louis (10)

Moulin

Historic windmill in Port Louis, Mauritius, a remnant of the colonial era.

Musée d'Histoire🏛 museum

History museum in Port Louis, showcasing the past of Mauritius.

Postal Museum🏛 museum

Postal museum in Port Louis, Mauritius, with exhibits on postal history.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:30-16:30; Sa 09:30-15:30

Aapravasi Ghat🏛 museum

Museum in Port Louis commemorating the arrival of indentured laborers.

Central Market

Central market in Port Louis, Mauritius, with food and craft stalls.

Centre d'Arts Caudan

Arts centre in Port Louis with galleries, studios, and cultural events.

Odysseo

Aquarium in Port Louis, Mauritius, featuring marine life of the Indian Ocean.

Jummah Mosque

Mosque in Port Louis, Mauritius, a place of Islamic worship.

Chinatown Arch

Decorative arch in Port Louis, Mauritius, marking the Chinatown district.

Léoville L'Homme

Public space or monument in Port Louis, Mauritius, named after a local figure.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is housed in the old Port Louis main post office?
The building serves as a postal museum today.
What are the museum's opening hours?
Monday to Saturday, usually from 9 am to 4 pm.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, there is a moderate entry fee for adults.
Is the building accessible?
Ground floor access is accessible.
How do you get there?
It is located in the harbor district of Port Louis, easy to walk to.
Old General Post Office Port Louis: where is it located?
Old General Post Office Port Louis is located in Mauritius.
Old General Post Office Port Louis: what is there to see?
Highlights include Moulin, Musée d'Histoire, Postal Museum.
Old General Post Office Port Louis: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Old General Post Office Port Louis: why is it worth visiting?
The Old General Post Office in Port Louis is one of the most distinguished historical structures in Mauritius, standing as a prime example of Victorian colonial architecture.
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