Plizio Visual Lab

Marie Reine de la Paix

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
monument
—°10
Marie Reine de la Paix (Mauritius)

Weather…

Marie Reine de la Paix is a major religious and historical monument perched on the lower slopes of Signal Mountain, overlooking Port Louis. Dedicated in 1940, the shrine was established as a place of prayer for peace during the turmoil of World War II. At its peak stands a magnificent three-meter marble statue of the Virgin Mary, a work by the sculptor Prosper d'Épinay, which serves as a guardian over the capital. Visitors reach the statue by ascending 82 wide stone steps flanked by beautiful, terraced gardens that are often in full bloom. The site is a focal point for the Catholic community in Mauritius and has hosted historic masses by Pope John Paul II in 1989 and Pope Francis in 2019. Its combination of spiritual gravity and wide-open views of the city harbor and the Moka mountain range makes it one of the most visited and revered sites in Mauritius.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272827272524232323242526
Rain mm128116122674129262124292944

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
Marie Reine de la Paix is an open shrine on a hill overlooking Port Louis. The grounds are freely accessible at any time and invite a short visit or a moment of reflection.
🕒
Typical hours
As an open pilgrimage site, it has no set opening hours and is accessible day and night. Most visitors come during daylight hours to enjoy the view over the city.
📷
Photography
Photography of the statue and grounds is expressly allowed. The panoramic view over Port Louis and the harbour has remarkable photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit to the shrine typically takes 15 to 20 minutes to see the statue and enjoy the view. If you take time to linger, you can plan for half an hour.
Combine with
The shrine is located near the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and the Citadel. Combining these sights provides a varied day out in the region.
🧭
Getting there
The shrine is easily reached by car or taxi from Port Louis; a drive leads almost to the statue. There is a small parking area; on foot, it is a steep climb.
💡
Insider tip
Visit the site in the late afternoon to experience the sunset over Port Louis. The golden hour bathes the white marble statue of the Virgin Mary in warm, beautiful light.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.17150, 57.49850

Facts

  • Year of construction: 1940
  • Location: Port Louis
  • Statue height: 3 meters
  • Number of steps to the top: 82
  • Visit by Pope John Paul II in 1989
  • Used for open-air religious ceremonies

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 Marie Reine de la Paix (10)

Marie Reine de la Paix

Artwork in Mauritius. A statue of the Virgin Mary or religious artwork symbolizing peace.

Signal Mountain

Viewpoint in Mauritius. Mountain offering panoramic views of Port Louis and surroundings.

Marie Barthelemy

Attraction in Mauritius. A statue or monument remembering a local personality.

Léoville L'Homme

Attraction in Mauritius. A monument or statue in honor of Léoville L'Homme.

Photo Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Mauritius. Displays a collection of historical photographs and cameras.

Natural History Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Port Louis, Mauritius. Showcases the island's animal and plant life.

Centre d'Arts Caudan

Arts centre in Mauritius. Venue for exhibitions, workshops and cultural events.

Théatre de Port Louis

Theatre in Port Louis, Mauritius. Historic theatre building used for performances.

St Louis Cathedral

Building in Mauritius. St Louis Cathedral in Port Louis is a major Catholic church.

Blue Penny Museum🏛 museum

Stamp museum in Port Louis, capital of Mauritius. Displays rare stamps and postal history.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Marie Reine de la Paix?
A significant Catholic monument and pilgrimage site.
Does the place offer a good view?
Yes, you have a great view over Port Louis.
Is admission free?
Yes, it is freely accessible for everyone.
How much time to allocate?
About 30 to 45 minutes.
Is the place quiet?
Mostly yes, as it is a place for contemplation.
Marie Reine de la Paix: where is it located?
Marie Reine de la Paix is located in Mauritius.
Marie Reine de la Paix: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marie Reine de la Paix, Signal Mountain, Marie Barthelemy.
Marie Reine de la Paix: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Marie Reine de la Paix: why is it worth visiting?
Marie Reine de la Paix is a major religious and historical monument perched on the lower slopes of Signal Mountain, overlooking Port Louis.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Mauritius →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks