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St. Francois d'Assise Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The St. François d'Assise Church in Pamplemousses stands as the oldest church in Mauritius and a cornerstone of the island's colonial history. Consecrated in 1756, its construction was initiated under the direction of Governor Mahé de La Bourdonnais, making it a prime example of mid-18th-century French sacred architecture. The building is characterized by its sturdy stone walls and classic proportions, designed to withstand both the passage of time and the tropical climate. Inside, the church houses a significant collection of religious artworks and artifacts that have been carefully preserved. Its location is particularly significant, situated directly across from the historic Pamplemousses cemetery, where many prominent figures from the island's early administrative and social history are buried. For visitors, the church features a quiet, contemplative atmosphere and a tangible connection to the early European heritage of Mauritius, serving as a reminder of the island's deep-rooted cultural and religious evolution.

Location: Mauritius
Top sights: St Francois D'Assise · Bust Of Bernadin De Saint Puerre · Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden
Nearby: Triolet (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	28	27	27	25	24	23	23	23	24	25	26
Rain mm	128	116	122	67	41	29	26	21	24	29	29	44

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The St. Francois d'Assise Church in Pamplemousses is considered the oldest church in Mauritius and is open to the public. You can view the French colonial sacred architecture and historic graves.

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Typical hours

The church is typically open during the day for visitors, especially around mass times. On holidays, hours may differ; a quick inquiry is worthwhile.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash to avoid disturbing devotion. The simple stone church outside with the old cross is a popular subject.

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Time needed

A visit lasts about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on interest in details. Those who want to carefully examine the cemetery and interior should allow an hour.

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Combine with

Definitely combine the church visit with the famous Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. The nearby Saint Antoine sugar plantation is also worth a detour.

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Getting there

The church is in the center of Pamplemousses, a few minutes' walk from the Botanical Garden. It is easily reached by car or bus from Port Louis.

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Insider tip

Ask the sacristan if you can see the old bell from the French period. Visit the church early in the morning before the tourist buses arrive.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.10820, 57.57580

Facts

Oldest church in Mauritius, built in 1756.
Constructed with volcanic stone and lime mortar.
Located in the Pamplemousses district.
Architecture follows a French colonial layout.
The roof was originally covered with shingles.
The church is dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mon Plaisir Gate<1 km · NEExplore →

Chateau de Labourdonnais3 km · EExplore →

Mapou4 km · NEExplore →

Triolet5 km · SEExplore →

Terre Rouge5 km · SExplore →

Pieter Both Mountain5 km · SWExplore →

Grand Baie6 km · EExplore →

Mauritius Horse Trails6 km · EExplore →

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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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town St. Francois d'Assise Church (7)

St Francois D'Assise

Church building in Mauritius, dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi.

Bust Of Bernadin De Saint Puerre

Bust of French writer Bernardin de Saint-Pierre.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Botanical garden in Pamplemousses, near Port Louis, Mauritius.

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Deer Pen

Enclosure with deer inside the botanical garden.

Tortoise Pen

Enclosure with giant tortoises, part of the botanical garden.

Old Sugar Mill Model

Model of an old sugar mill, displayed in the garden.

L'Aventure du Sucre🏛 museum

Museum about the history of the sugar industry in Mauritius.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is it allowed to enter the church?

Yes, outside of service hours.

How is the atmosphere?

Very quiet and venerable.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered.

Is photography allowed?

Only without flash and discreetly.

When should one go?

During the week in the morning.

St. Francois d'Assise Church: where is it located?

St. Francois d'Assise Church is located in Mauritius.

St. Francois d'Assise Church: what is there to see?

Highlights include St Francois D'Assise, Bust Of Bernadin De Saint Puerre, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.

St. Francois d'Assise Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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