About Mauritius:
The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean about 1200 miles (2,000 kilometers) off the southeast coast of the African continent. The country includes the island of Mauritius, Rodrigues, and the outer islands (Agaléga, St. Brandon and two disputed territories). Mauritius, the main island of the Republic of Mauritius, extends about 38 miles (61 km) from its northernmost to southernmost points and about 29 miles (47 km) from east to west.
Port Louis is the capital and most populous city of Mauritius and is the country’s financial and political center. It is administered by the Municipal City Council of Port Louis. According to the 2018 census conducted by Statistics Mauritius, the population of Port Louis was 147,066.
According to the latest government survey, the three major religions practiced here: Hindus account for 48.5% of the population, Christianity 32.7%, and Islam 17.3%. Most Christians are Roman Catholic. Mauritius was visited by Pope John Paul II in 1989 and Pope Francis, 30 years later, in 2019)
Catholic places of interest in Mauritius:
We have broken this down into three geographic areas.
In the north:
Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux
Address: 2J7C+8VX, Cap Malheureux.
Phone: 208 3068.
Saint Anges Gardiens (Holy Saints Church)
Located on the northern coast, Saint Anges Gardiens, commonly known as Holy Saints Church, is a Catholic church that stands as an architectural masterpiece. Masses are held on Thursday nights and throughout the weekend. What sets this church apart is its monthly English mass on a Sunday at 10 a.m. The serene seaside setting makes it a popular choice among worshipers. If you’re seeking tranquility, consider attending the evening service to avoid the Sunday morning rush.
Address: Route Royale, Grand Baie.
Phone number: +230 263 8738.
In the center:
Marie Reine de la Paix (Mary Queen of Peace Church)
Marie Reine de la Paix church in Port Louis attracts hundreds of locals and tourists daily. While mass is conducted in French, the church premises offer a tranquil retreat with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city. It’s a serene spot for picnics and relaxation, and at night, it provides a unique perspective of Port Louis illuminated.
St. Louis Cathedral in Port Louis
One of the oldest and most iconic churches in Mauritius. Although mass is in French, its stunning architecture, serene ambiance, and well-maintained surroundings make it a must-visit landmark.
Address: RGP4+6J6, Bourbon St, Port Louis.
Phone: +230 208 4396.
In the west:
Chapelle St Benoît (Paroisse Saint Augustin): Located in Tamarin, offers an English mass every first Sunday of the month at 6 p.m.
Address: M9CH+689, A3, Tamarin. Phone: +230 483 6612
Chapelle St Marc (Paroisse Saint Sauveur): Situated in Flic en Flac, Chapelle St Marc is a charming chapel that hosts mass in English every third Saturday of the month at 5 p.m. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful view at the back of the church after your worship.
Address: P9GF+QP3, Flic en Flac.
Traveling to Mauritius:
By air: Mauritius is served by several major international airlines in addition to the home carrier of Air Mauritius. The main airport of Mauritius is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (IATA code MRU), located in Plaine Magnien about 30 miles (48 km) southeast of Port Louis.
By ship: Costa Cruises currently lists Port Louis, Mauritius as a home port on its official ports page, meaning the company operates cruises that begin or end there. Mauritius is also a popular port-of-call for several cruise lines, including Cunard, Crystal Cruises, MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises.