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Old Souillac Post Office

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Landmark
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Old Souillac Post Office (Mauritius)

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The Old Souillac Post Office is one of the most distinctive historical landmarks in the rugged southern region of Mauritius. Erected in the 19th century, the building is a prime example of colonial administrative architecture, skillfully combining local materials such as dark volcanic stone and heavy timber. With its signature shingle roof and robust stone walls, the structure exudes the rustic charm of a bygone era. Souillac, named after the Vicomte de Souillac, was once a significant port for sugar exports from the south, and the post office acted as the vital communication hub for the growing settlement. Although it no longer serves its original purpose, it remains a cherished piece of cultural heritage and a favorite subject for photographers visiting the village. Located in the historical heart of Souillac near the Telfair Gardens, the building perfectly reflects the quiet and authentic atmosphere of this less-commercialized part of Mauritius, offering a window into the island's 19th-century civil service history.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727262523222223242526
Rain mm127113124794732282629313448

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The old Souillac post office is a pleasant colonial building that can be visited. It now houses a small museum on local administrative and postal history.
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Typical hours
The museum is typically open on weekdays during office hours. It may be closed on weekends and public holidays; an advance inquiry is recommended.
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Photography
Photography inside the museum is usually allowed without flash to protect the exhibits. The pretty colonial façade outside is always a worthwhile photo subject.
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Time needed
A visit to the museum takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Allow extra time to explore the surrounding area and coastline.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Marine Cemetery and Gris Gris Cape. A stroll through the Souillac market is also a pleasant option.
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Getting there
The old post office is located in central Souillac on the main street. It is within walking distance of the bus station and the town's main sights.
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Insider tip
Ask at the tourist office for the key if the museum is closed - often you can still visit. Combine the visit with an ice cream at the nearby bakery.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.51250, 57.51420

Facts

  • Built in the 19th century
  • Location: Souillac, Savanne
  • Material: Local stone
  • National heritage site
  • Architecture: British colonial style
  • Former administrative center

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.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Old Souillac Post Office (8)

Rochester Falls

Waterfall in Mauritius, surrounded by tropical vegetation.

Riambel Public Beach

Public beach in Riambel, Mauritius, for swimming and sunbathing.

Telfair Public Beach

Public beach in Telfair, Mauritius, with sand and sea.

Telfair Gardens

Monument in Telfair, Mauritius, a landscaped garden or park.

Robert Edward Hart Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Souillac, Mauritius, dedicated to poet Robert Edward Hart.

Gris Gris

Beach in Mauritius, known for its rough sea and cliffs.

la roches de bois

Viewpoint in Mauritius, overlooking the coast and rocks.

La Roche qui Pleure

Viewpoint in Mauritius, where waves hit rocks creating spray.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the old post office in Souillac a museum?
It is a historical building but often used for other purposes.
What is the architecture like?
A typical example of local architecture in the south.
Can you visit it inside?
Usually no, it is not a public museum.
Where is the building in Souillac?
It is centrally located near the main road.
What else is there in Souillac?
Visit the nearby cliffs of Gris Gris.
Old Souillac Post Office: where is it located?
Old Souillac Post Office is located in Mauritius.
Old Souillac Post Office: what is there to see?
Highlights include Rochester Falls, Riambel Public Beach, Telfair Public Beach.
Old Souillac Post Office: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Old Souillac Post Office: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Souillac Post Office is one of the most distinctive historical landmarks in the rugged southern region of Mauritius.
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