Pere Laval's Shrine, Port Louis

Père Laval's Shrine honors the legacy of the revered French missionary, Père Jacques-Désiré Laval, renowned for his tireless advocacy for the impoverished and ailing. Following his passing in 1846, he was interred in the old church's graveyard. Decades later, in 1979, his resting place underwent beautification and was unveiled to the public. The shrine, akin to a beacon of hope akin to Lourdes in the Indian Ocean, has drawn pilgrims seeking miracles attributed to Père Laval's presence.

Pilgrims, hailing from distant lands like South Africa, Britain, and France, converge here, regardless of their faith, to commemorate the anniversary of his demise on 9th September. Notable is the worn-smooth effigy atop his tomb, testimony to the countless faithful who have sought solace and miracles at his shrine.

Within the sanctuary grounds stands a modern church, alongside a museum showcasing Père Laval's vestments, letters, and photographs, preserving his memory for generations to come. Since his arrival in Mauritius in 1841, Père Laval's altruism and compassion have resonated deeply with the Mauritian populace, transcending religious boundaries.