Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
halls get marks for trying, with a good collection of stuffed endemic bird species, includ-
ing the solitaire and red rail, both now extinct but nowhere near as famous as the dodo.
Chapel and Shrine of Marie
Reine De La Paix
CHURCH, RELIGIOUS SHRINE
(Monseigneur Leen Ave)
The modern chapel and shrine of Marie Reine de la Paix is a popular
spot for prayers, and the ornamental gardens offer views over the city. During Pope John
Paul II's visit to the island he officiated his first Mass here.
Photography Museum
( 211 1705;
www.voyaz.com/musee-photo
;
Old Council St; admission Rs 150; 10am-3pm Mon-Fri)
This
small but engaging museum, down a cobbled lane opposite the Municipal Theatre, is the
labour of love of local photographer Tristan Bréville. He's amassed a treasure trove of old
cameras and prints, including several daguerreotypes (the forerunner of photographs) pro-
duced in Mauritius in 1840, just a few months after the technique was discovered in
France. The museum also contains a vast archive of historical photos of the island
(however, only a fraction are on display).
MUSEUM
Champ de Mars Racecourse
(Hippodrome; 211 2147;
www.mauritiusturfclub.com
)
This racecourse was a military training
ground until the Mauritius Turf Club was founded in 1812, making it the second-oldest
racecourse in the world. Mauritian independence was proclaimed here in 1968. Within the
The racing season lasts from around April to late November, with meetings usually held
on a Saturday or Sunday. The biggest race of all is the
Maiden Cup
in September. If you're
here on a race day, it's well worth joining the throng of betting-crazy locals. Tickets for
the stands and loges range from Rs 50 to Rs 100, but admission to the rest of the ground is
usually free. For race dates, contact the Mauritius Turf Club or check the local media.
RACECOURSE
Fort Adelaide
FORTRESS
