Top Religious Buildings (Self Guided), Port Louis

The Jummah Mosque is a historically significant mosque that dates back to the 1850s. Initially, a house on the property was used as a temporary place of worship while the mosque was being constructed. In 1853, the mosque was consecrated, and it was initially known as the "Mosque of the Arabs" after its founders, who were mistakenly believed to be Arabs.

Over time, the Muslim community in Port-Louis grew, and the mosque needed to be expanded to accommodate more worshippers. Several lots around the mosque were purchased between 1857 and 1877 by Muslim merchants and donated to the mosque. The expansion works began in 1878 and were overseen by Jackaria Jan Mahomed, but disease and a shortage of construction supplies delayed the completion until 1895.

Today, the Jummah Mosque is an impressive blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. The mosque's design incorporates Moorish and Mughal influences, and it occupies an entire city block. The former Mosque of the Arabs has been integrated into the expanded building and serves as the main prayer hall. The prayer hall is illuminated by beautiful glass chandeliers.

One of the most interesting features of the Jummah Mosque is the Indian almond or badamia tree that stands in the middle of the courtyard. This tree was already present on the land when it was purchased in 1852, and it has remained an important part of the mosque's history and heritage.

The Jummah Mosque also has a unique historical significance, as it houses the remains of Jamal Shah, a pir from Kutch, India. His marble tomb is located next to the mosque, and it is a popular destination for visitors who come to pay their respects.

The Markazi Mosque is a huge mosque located in the capital of Mauritius. It is less well known than the Jummah Mosque, so you may find it less crowded. Visit this religious building to admire its traditional Muslim architectural style. If you are not Muslim, you will not be able to explore the mosque in its entirety.

Saint Louis Cathedral was founded in 1933 and is the most popular religious building on the island of Mauritius. Every week Catholic worshipers gather here to pray. Saint Louis Cathedral was built in the Gothic style and is one of the oldest churches on the island, as a church has existed at this site since 1752.

Saint James Cathedral is situated near Saint Louis Cathedral and opened in 1850. The church's interior is composed primarily of wood. Inside you will find numerous name plates that commemorate notable Mauritian residents of the past. It has a quiet, relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal place to pray or gather your thoughts.

The Chapel and Shrine of Marie Reine de la Paix is situated on a hill at the outskirts of the city. This religious building is very popular not only with the locals, but also with tourists who come to admire the building's modern architecture. The chapel is surrounded by a green area from which you can enjoy a great view of Port Louis.

The Madurai Amen Koil Temple is a Tamil temple in Port Louis. The temple has a bright exterior design that features sculptures of Tamil deities. More than 100,000 people on the island practice this religion, which is essentially a branch of Hinduism.

Saint Peter Anglican Church is a small church situated at the outskirts of Port Louis. It is tightly connected to the Church of England. Services are held here every Sunday.