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International Slave Route Monument

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International Slave Route Monument (Mauritius)

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The International Slave Route Monument, positioned at the base of the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain, is a profound site of remembrance in Mauritius. Inaugurated in 2009, it honors the thousands of enslaved people who sought freedom on the rugged cliffs of the mountain. As a key component of this UNESCO World Heritage site, the monument features a circular arrangement of sculptures contributed by international artists from countries tied to the slave trade, such as Reunion, Madagascar, and Mozambique. These evocative figures represent the pain of captivity and the triumph of the human spirit over oppression. The location on the Le Morne peninsula is deeply symbolic, as the mountain served as a natural fortress for runaway slaves. Visitors are invited to explore the garden of sculptures, which serves as an open-air museum dedicated to preserving the memory of the struggle for liberty and the diverse cultural roots of the Mauritian people.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

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Rain mm127113124794732282629313448

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The International Slave Route Monument at the foot of Le Morne Mountain is freely accessible. You can view the outdoor sculptures and enter the memorial site at any time.
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Typical hours
As an open-air monument, it is accessible 24/7. There are no fixed opening hours, but daytime visits are recommended.
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Photography
Photography is allowed and encouraged throughout the site. The sculptures offer impressive shots against the backdrop of Le Morne Mountain.
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Time needed
Allow about 20 to 30 minutes to quietly view the monument and sculptures. For a visit to the adjacent Le Morne cultural area, allow extra time.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a hike up Le Morne Brabant or a trip to nearby beaches. The slave museum in the village is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The monument is at the foot of Le Morne Mountain, about 10 km southwest of Baie du Cap. Best reached by car or taxi; a small parking lot is available.
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Insider tip
Visit the monument in the late afternoon when the light is especially beautiful for photos. Take time to read the information panels to understand the historical significance.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.45520, 57.31550

Facts

  • Inaugurated on February 1, 2009, for the Abolition of Slavery Day
  • Located at the base of the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant
  • Features sculptures by artists from Reunion, Madagascar, and Mozambique
  • Commemorates the 'maroons' who sought refuge in the mountain
  • Mauritius was a major hub in the Indian Ocean slave trade
  • Slavery was officially abolished in Mauritius in 1835

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town International Slave Route Monument (7)

Le Morne

Beach at the foot of Le Morne Brabant. Suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Slave Route Monument

Monument in Le Morne. Commemorates the slave trade and the escape of maroons.

Le Morne Brabant

Peninsula and mountain in Mauritius. UNESCO World Heritage site, symbol of resistance.

Le Morne Cross

Cross on Le Morne Brabant summit. Memorial for escaped slaves.

Kitesurf Area Le Morne

Beach section in Le Morne. Famous for kitesurfing due to constant wind.

North Viewpoint

Viewpoint in Le Morne. Overlooks the lagoon and the mountain.

Le Morne Cemetery

Archaeological site in Le Morne. Historic cemetery from the slavery era.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does this monument symbolize?
It commemorates the tragic history of slavery and the struggle for freedom.
Is it an important historical site?
Yes, it is located near Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Is it publicly accessible?
Yes, the site is freely accessible.
Do you need a guide?
Not necessarily, but a guide helps to better understand the background.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available near Le Morne beach.
International Slave Route Monument: where is it located?
International Slave Route Monument is located in Mauritius.
International Slave Route Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Le Morne, Slave Route Monument, Le Morne Brabant.
International Slave Route Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
International Slave Route Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The International Slave Route Monument, positioned at the base of the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain, is a profound site of remembrance in Mauritius.
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