Eclosia encourages the discovery of local culture through an outing to Mahébourg
After exploring Port-Louis last year, this year’s cultural outing to Mahébourg, organized by Eclosia Corporate Services, was once again a great success among employees. Maya de Salle, Cultural Project Manager, took on the role of guide, introducing her colleagues to several historical and cultural sites in the town. “It’s not just Mahébourg, but the entire southeastern region—from Vieux Grand Port to Mahébourg, passing through Ferney—that holds historical significance and is often too little known by Mauritians,” she explained.
The visit began with a stop at Ferney, the landing site of the Dutch in 1598, followed by a tour of the historic Fort Frederik Hendrik in Vieux Grand Port. Employees explored its archaeological remains and museum, including the only visible Dutch wall still standing—most of the remaining ruins date back to the French period. They also discovered a lesser-known historical site near the fort: the Dutch cemetery.
But that wasn’t all! Employees also walked through Mahébourg to uncover the village’s hidden gems, such as the old washing area (lavoir), the watering trough (abreuvoir), and the former train warehouse. They admired the magistrate’s court, a colonial-era building over 150 years old that has housed the district court since 1850. With its stunning ebony wood framework and other indigenous timber, the structure is a true architectural masterpiece.
The visit ended at the Mahébourg Waterfront, where employees took a break to enjoy local treats such as "gâteaux merveilles", "glason rape", "pistas griye", and "baja" before heading to Blue Bay Beach. It was the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy the beautiful weather, and take in the breathtaking ocean view.
This cultural outing reignited a passion for discovering—or rediscovering—the often-overlooked treasures of Mauritius. For Rohaan Kistoo, Procurement Manager, it was a chance to revisit lessons from his school days and return to places he had seen on educational trips. “I also discovered new places I had never been to before! It was a fantastic day, full of enriching experiences and cultural discoveries,” he shared.
Claire Jean-Louis, Administrative Secretary, who spent all her childhood vacations in Mahébourg, noted that the village has retained its old-world charm. “That’s what I love about Mahébourg. Nothing has changed—the different scents of the neighborhoods, the kindness of the people, the delicious old-time pastries... It brought me so much joy to relive those moments,” she said, with a touch of nostalgia.