Port Louis – The Dutch "Harbour of Tortoises" that became the capital
Port Louis was used as a harbour by Dutch settlers from 1606, who called it the Harbour of Tortoises. In 1736, under French rule, it became the administrative centre of the island and an important stopover for ships sailing between Asia and Europe. Named after King Louis XV, the city was developed by governor Mahé de La Bourdonnais, and its harbour, sheltered by the Moka range, later helped Britain control the Indian Ocean.
Shipping declined after the Suez Canal opened in 1869, but the port was modernised in the late 1970s. Today Port Louis is the capital and financial centre of Mauritius. Share your Port Louis stories and photos with our community!