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Port Louis Central Post Office

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—°10
Port Louis Central Post Office (Mauritius)

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The Port Louis Central Post Office is one of the most significant colonial-era buildings in Mauritius, standing proudly near the waterfront since its completion in 1870. Built during the Victorian era under British rule, the structure is crafted from dark, locally sourced basalt stones, featuring the distinctive arched windows and sturdy masonry characteristic of public architecture of that period. It served as the central hub for the island's postal and telecommunications services for generations, playing a vital role in maritime trade. Today, while still functioning as a post office, it also houses the National Postal Museum. Inside, visitors can explore the rich philatelic history of Mauritius, which is world-famous for its rare early stamps, such as the legendary Blue and Red Penny issues. Its location near the harbor quay provides a historical link to the days when mail arrived by steamship. The building's enduring presence and its transition into a museum make it a key landmark for understanding the administrative and social development of Port Louis during the 19th century.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272827272524232323242526
Rain mm128116122674129262124292944

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The building is partly open to the public; the postal museum inside can be visited. The main post office counter is open during business hours.
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Typical hours
The postal museum typically opens on weekdays in the morning and afternoon. Exact hours vary; a phone inquiry in advance is recommended.
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Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the museum without flash. The historic mailbox and old stamps are popular subjects.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to one hour for a museum visit. Those interested in philately may stay longer.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a stroll along Port Louis harbour. The Blue Penny Museum and the Citadelle are also nearby.
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Getting there
The post office is in central Port Louis, near the harbour. It is walkable from many central points, and buses stop in the area.
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Insider tip
Ask at the counter for special stamps - they are often only available on site. Museum entry is sometimes tied to buying a stamp.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.15940, 57.50240

Facts

  • Built: 1864-1868
  • Material: Large basalt stones
  • Architectural style: Victorian
  • National monument of Mauritius
  • Location: Directly by the harbor
  • Contains the Postal Museum

Explore nearby

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Mauritius Postal MuseumMauritius Postal Museum<1 km · SExplore →
Champ de Mars RacecourseChamp de Mars Racecourse1 km · NWExplore →
Riche TerreRiche Terre2 km · EExplore →
Mauritius FreeportMauritius Freeport2 km · SEExplore →
Le HochetLe Hochet2 km · NEExplore →
PaillesPailles3 km · SWExplore →
Maison EurekaMaison Eureka3 km · WExplore →
Petit VergerPetit Verger3 km · NWExplore →

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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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Port Louis Central Post Office (10)

Musée d'Histoire🏛 museum

History museum in Port Louis, documenting the past of the island of Mauritius.

Postal Museum🏛 museum

Museum showcasing the postal history of Mauritius, with famous stamps.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:30-16:30; Sa 09:30-15:30

Aapravasi Ghat🏛 museum

Historic landing site in Port Louis, UNESCO World Heritage site, testament to Indian immigration.

Moulin

Windmill in Port Louis, a historic structure from the colonial era.

Central Market

Large market in Port Louis, known for fruit, vegetables, spices and local crafts.

Jummah Mosque

Mosque in Port Louis, an important Islamic place of worship in the capital.

Chinatown Arch

Gateway in Port Louis's Chinatown, symbol of the Chinese community.

Léoville L'Homme

Street or square in Port Louis, named after Mauritian writer Léoville L'Homme.

Théatre de Port Louis

Historic theatre in Port Louis, opened in 1822, one of the oldest in the southern hemisphere.

Centre d'Arts Caudan

Arts centre in the Caudan waterfront district of Port Louis, with galleries and workshops.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Hauptpostamt Port Louis historically significant?
Yes, built in 1868, the building is one of the city's oldest and most beautiful architectural landmarks.
Can I buy stamps there?
Yes, it is a fully operational post office and provides postal services.
When is the Hauptpostamt open?
Usually open weekdays from 08:00 to 15:30, Saturdays until noon.
Is photography inside allowed?
It is better to ask the staff first, as it is an operational workspace.
What is there to see nearby?
Aapravasi Ghat and the Caudan Waterfront are just a few minutes' walk away.
Port Louis Central Post Office: where is it located?
Port Louis Central Post Office is located in Mauritius.
Port Louis Central Post Office: what is there to see?
Highlights include Musée d'Histoire, Postal Museum, Aapravasi Ghat.
Port Louis Central Post Office: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Port Louis Central Post Office: why is it worth visiting?
The Port Louis Central Post Office is one of the most significant colonial-era buildings in Mauritius, standing proudly near the waterfront since its completion in 1870.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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🗺️
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Saint Pierre — Port Louis Central Post Office (Mauritius)
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Le Hochet — Port Louis Central Post Office (Mauritius)
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History & landmarks

Curepipe Town Hall — Port Louis Central Post Office (Mauritius)
Curepipe Town Hall
A fine example of colonial wooden architecture in the center of Curepipe.