Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Memorial Centre for Culture is dedicated to the late Prime Minister of Mauritius and Father of the Nation, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam. This center-cum-museum is in the same house where Sir Ramgoolam spent almost thirty years of his life. It was under his leadership, that the nation sought independence from British rule and the center has displayed his personal belongings, documents, photographs, furniture, books collection and so forth. The building also houses a statue of Ramgoolam in its courtyard. Apart from the permanent exhibits, it also hosts cultural events throughout the year. For more details, check website or call ahead.
The construction of the Plaza Theatre began in 1927, after the local residents filed a petition demanding a venue be built that accommodates the 'growing importance' of the city of Rose Hill. Thus, the Plaza Theatre was under way, and after its inauguration in 1933, it has stayed in its place of being a venue of prominence in the cultural scene of the entire island. This is highlighted by the fact that today the theater hosts important cultural events, including the Opera Mauritius. Do call for more information.
A grand example of Colonial architecture, the Château of Réduit has stood the test of time, having survived a cyclone and several modifications over the years. Completed in the year 1749, this mansion has been the home of prominent statesmen, including the Governor Pierre Felix Barthelemy David, who was also the architect of this grand structure. Today, it is the residence of the President of Mauritius. Besides the main structure, there are also beautiful gardens that surround the Chateau, which are also the venue for important cultural events.
A quaint little art gallery-cum-eatery, the Maniglier celebrates the works of the painter Maniglier, who was a student of Matisse. The building in which this place is housed is itself a wonder; it is an old sugar mill, and still retains some of its rustic charm. On display are a range of paintings and other works by this locally known artist. The restaurant is known to be quite highly priced, so be prepared to splurge. Call ahead, as reservations maybe required.
Since 1985, the Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes is a nature park that is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, fish and invertebrates of the Mascarene Islands. The park also has an insectarium that boasts about 23,000 species of insects. If you love reptiles, then this place is definitely a must-visit, as they have Nile Crocodiles and Giant Turtles, the oldest being 90 years old and weighing about 275 kg. Besides the animals, the park also has an abundance of vegetation, almost like a rainforest inside it. However, if you are an animal-lover, then you might be disappointed by the park's restaurant, Le Crocodile Affame, which serves crocodile meat. Do see the website for more information.
National Library of Mauritius is one of the important landmarks in town. With more than 230,000 items like books, journals, maps and historic documents, it is truly a treasure trove of information. Apart from storing important materials, it also attempts to update the existing collection. Students, researchers and general public visit this library for reference books, newspaper clippings and so forth. For information on the library's extensive collection and other details, call ahead.