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French Landing Commemorative Stone

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

French Landing Commemorative Stone (Mauritius)

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The French Landing Commemorative Stone in Mahébourg marks a defining moment in the history of Mauritius. This monument honors the year 1715, when Captain Guillaume Dufresne d'Arsel officially claimed the island for France in the name of King Louis XIV, renaming it Île de France. The stone is positioned along the scenic Mahébourg waterfront, close to where the initial French settlers are believed to have first come ashore. This area was chosen for its strategic vantage point within the Grand Port bay, which served as a major center for maritime trade and naval battles for centuries. The commemorative stone is a key stop on the historical trail of Mahébourg, leading visitors through the town's colonial past. Beyond its historical significance, the site gives panoramic views across the turquoise waters of the bay toward Lion Mountain. Annual ceremonies are held here to reflect on the island's colonial heritage and the enduring influence of French culture on the diverse Mauritian identity of today.

Location: Mauritius
Top sights: Lavoir · Waterfront Mahebourg · Four à chaux
Nearby: Plaine Magnien (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	26	25	23	22	22	23	24	25	26
Rain mm	127	113	124	79	47	32	28	26	29	31	34	48

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The French Landing Commemorative Stone is a simple memorial stone that is freely accessible at all times. It is located in Mahébourg along the waterfront promenade and can be viewed without any restrictions.

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Typical hours

As a public memorial in an open space, it has no opening hours and is accessible around the clock. Visitors typically come during daylight hours when the waterfront area is active and safe.

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Photography

Photography of the commemorative stone and its surroundings is allowed without any restrictions. The simple design of the stone set against the coastal backdrop makes for good historical-themed photos.

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Time needed

A visit to the stone takes just two to five minutes to read the inscription and take a picture. Combined with a stroll along the promenade, you can plan for 20 to 30 minutes in total.

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Combine with

The commemorative stone is located very close to the Mahebourg Waterfront Monument and the Naval Memorial. These three historic sites can be perfectly combined in a short walking tour.

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Getting there

The commemorative stone is located directly on the Mahébourg promenade, roughly at the level of the main road. It is easily reachable on foot or by bicycle, and parking is available nearby.

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Insider tip

Read the inscription on the stone carefully to gain insight into early colonial history. An early morning visit allows for quiet contemplation before the tourist crowds arrive.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.40780, 57.70580

Facts

Year of French landing: 1721
Location: Pointe de la Colonie
City: Mahébourg
Material: Local basalt stone
Commemorates Dufresne d'Arsel
Historic harbor area

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mahebourg Naval Museum<1 km · SEExplore →

Vieux Grand Port Dutch Cemetery2 km · EExplore →

Ile des Deux Cocos2 km · WExplore →

Ile aux Aigrettes3 km · NExplore →

Fort Frederik Hendrik3 km · NEExplore →

Plaisance Industrial Estate4 km · SWExplore →

Domaine de l'Etoile6 km · EExplore →

Ile de la Passe7 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town French Landing Commemorative Stone (6)

Lavoir

Historic washhouse in Mahébourg, Mauritius, a public site by the water.

Waterfront Mahebourg

Viewpoint in Mahébourg, Mauritius, overlooking the bay and the sea.

Four à chaux

Ruins of a lime kiln in Mahébourg, Mauritius, from the colonial period.

Biscuiterie Rault🏛 museum

Museum in Mahébourg, Mauritius, showcasing the history of biscuit making.

National History Museum Mahebourg🏛 museum

National History Museum in Mahébourg, Mauritius, with historical collections.

Ile aux Aigrettes - Booking

Booking desk and visitor centre for Ile aux Aigrettes island in Mauritius.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the memorial stone in Mahébourg commemorate?

It commemorates the French landing in Mauritius.

Is the place easily accessible?

Yes, the stone is right on the waterfront.

How much time should I plan for this visit?

A quick stop of 10 minutes is more than enough.

Are there restaurants nearby?

Yes, the Mahébourg waterfront has many local eateries.

Is it a good place for walking?

The promenade is convenient for relaxed walks.

French Landing Commemorative Stone: where is it located?

French Landing Commemorative Stone is located in Mauritius.

French Landing Commemorative Stone: what is there to see?

Highlights include Lavoir, Waterfront Mahebourg, Four à chaux.

French Landing Commemorative Stone: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

French Landing Commemorative Stone: why is it worth visiting?

The French Landing Commemorative Stone in Mahébourg marks a defining moment in the history of Mauritius.

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