Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site — Attraction in Port Louis

The Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site is a historic landmark located in the city of Port Louis, Mauritius. The site holds great significance as it served as the first immigration depot for indentured laborers who were brought to the island from India and other countries to work on the sugar plantations during the 19th century.

The site comprises several buildings and structures, including a wharf, a courtyard, barracks, and offices, which have been preserved to give visitors an insight into the living conditions and experiences of the indentured laborers. The site also includes a museum that provides a comprehensive overview of the history and legacy of the indentured labor system.

The Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the indentured laborers who endured harsh conditions to build a new life for themselves and their families in Mauritius. The site has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006, as it represents a significant period in the island's history and serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by those who came before us.

Visitors to the site can take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site, as well as explore the museum and view exhibits showcasing the culture and traditions of the indentured laborers. The site also hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, including cultural shows, performances, and exhibitions, which provide an opportunity to experience and celebrate the island's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, the Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site is an essential destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Mauritius. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, coupled with its historical significance and cultural relevance, make it a must-visit destination for both locals and...

Aapravasi Ghat) is a building complex located in Port Louis on the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius, the first British colony to receive indentured, or contracted, labour workforce from India. From 1849 to 1923, half a million Indian indentured labourers passed through the Immigration Depot, to be transported to plantations throughout the British Empire. The large-scale migration of the laborers left an indelible mark on the societies of many former British colonies, with Indians constituting a substantial proportion of their national populations. In Mauritius alone, 68 percent of the current total population is of Indian ancestry. The Immigration Depot has thus become an important reference point in the history and cultural identity of Mauritius.

The area where the building complex is situated, Trou Fanfaron, was the landing point for the French East India Company, which took possession of Mauritius in 1721. Slaves were imported from Africa, India and Madagascar to construct defensive walls and a hospital during the early phase of settlement. By the mid-18th century, sugar plantations had been developed on the Island of Mauritius, utilizing...

The Aapravasi Ghat ("Aapravasi" is the Hindi word for Immigrant and "Ghat" in Hindi means shore) literally translates to "Immigration Shore"

This immigration depot is located in Port Louis and served as the first British Colony to receive indentured labour from India.

From about 1849 to 1923, it is estimated that about 500,000 Indian indentured labourers passed through to work on plantations throughout the British Empire.

Currently the partial remains house three stone buildings from the complex. However, the Beekrumsing Ramlallah Interpretation Centre preserves the historical significance of this now World Heritage Site through visuals, interactive multimedia displays, and artefacts.

The scene does leave one with a sense of melancholy as to state of work and living of the indentured labourers, but then history is not always sunshine and roses.

It's a must stop for those interested in the historical evolution of Mauritius and it's culture. Also, it's located right next to the Caudan Wterdront and the Postal Museum, and can be coupled with these for half a day's "touristy" visit. The entry to all...