EXPLORING MAURITIUS CULTURE AND HISTORY

As one of the most diverse and beautiful islands in the world, Mauritius culture and history offers a glimpse into the many different cultural influences that are represented on the island. Mauritius is said to have been discovered by Arab traders in the 10th Century, however the Arabs continued on their search for Indian Ocean trade routes without stopping to settle. The large, vegetated island was discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 16th Century, to be settled by the Dutch, who named the island Mauritius. These early settlers consumed the now extinct Dodo until the entire population of these birds was wiped out. The French took over in the 17th Century, bringing African slaves to work in the sugar-cane plantations and renaming the island ‘Isle de France’. The Mauritian Creole language was developed during this era of Mauritius history as a way for slaves and masters to communicate.

The British began to consider Mauritius for its location on the trade route, eventually taking control of the island during the 1800s and reclaiming the name. Over the centuries, Chinese traders and other cultural groups entered the island’s shores, resulting in a widely diverse culture. Eventually, Mauritius won its independence in 1968, remaining within the Commonwealth. Today, English, French, Creole and native dialects are all spoken widely throughout the island. The vibrant, rich history of Mauritius is remembered throughout the year with a number of holidays that take place each year.

Festivals and Holidays in Mauritius

Festivals and holidays in Mauritius include many Hindu special holidays, as well as Chinese holidays, Muslim holidays and many other occasions that are celebrated by all citizens of Mauritius as well as visitors to the island. Some of these festivals include the following:

• New Year - 1 and 2 January
• Chinese Spring Festival – Between January and February
• Abolition of Slavery – 1 February
• National Independence Day – 12 March
• Labour Day 1 May
• Divali – Between October and November
• Eid-Ul-Fitr – Between October and November
• Arrival of Indentured Labourers – 2 November
• Christmas – 25 December

Mauritius Culture and Customs

Mauritius culture has a rich diversity that is not only seen in its holidays and history, but also in its cuisine, people and art. Cuisine is a distinctive blend of Chinese, Indian, European and Creole influences, with many dishes blending these styles into one unique dish.Seafood is a big part of the island’s cuisine, with many fish, shellfish and other seafood dishes that are caught fresh from the ocean and served in busy Mauritius restaurants. French food is also very popular on the island, with many traditional dishes to be found

Music, literature and sport all play a fairly strong role in everyday life on the island, with horse racing being one of the most popular sports to watch. Music and other art forms also showcase the many different influences within the island, resulting in a vivid style that is uniquely Mauritian. For most people in Mauritius, life is fairly easy going and relaxed. In a democracy that gives all citizens the right to practice their own beliefs and speak their native dialects, the unique blend of cultures that has been passed down throughout the island’s history has created a harmonious tropical paradise, with a rich, vibrant Mauritius culture that is both warm and welcoming.