A Historic Coastal Defense in Mauritius
The Martello Tower
Located in La Preneuse, on the southwest coast of Mauritius, the Martello Tower is a historical military fortification built by the British between 1832 and 1835. Designed to defend the island from potential invasions, it is one of five Martello Towers constructed in Mauritius. Today, it stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s colonial history and military architecture.
History and Architecture
The British military built Martello Towers worldwide as strategic coastal defenses. The towers in Mauritius were constructed to protect the island from naval attacks, particularly from the French. The Martello Tower at La Preneuse, located in Rivière Noire, is one of the few remaining and well-preserved structures. Restored in 1992 and converted into a museum in 2000, it showcases the island’s military past.
Inside the Martello Tower Museum
Inside the Martello Tower Museum
The museum inside the Martello Tower features artifacts, weapons, and historical documents from the British colonial period.
View from the Tower’s Rooftop
From the rooftop of the Martello Tower, visitors can see why this location was strategically chosen for coastal defense.
Main Entrance of the Martello Tower
The entrance to the Martello Tower at La Preneuse showcases the thick stone walls designed for protection against attacks.
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