
St. Francis of Assisi Church Pamplemousses
Mauritius's oldest Catholic church, a magnificent historical landmark with a poignant connection to the legend of Paul and Virginie.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Attend a blessed English mass

St. Francis of Assisi Church Pamplemousses
Best Time
Attend a blessed English mass

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mauritius's oldest Catholic church, a magnificent historical landmark with a poignant connection to the legend of Paul and Virginie.
"This church is a magnificent building and it is really massive. It is the oldest catholic church in Mauritius."

👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🅿️ Street Parking Available
You can usually find parking on nearby streets. Follow blue signs for the entrance. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur
Marvel at the magnificent, massive structure of this historic Catholic church, a true testament to its age.

Paul and Virginie Statue
See the poignant statue commemorating the legendary lovers, said to be buried within the church grounds.

English Mass Service
Attend a blessed English mass service, often held on Sundays at 10 AM, for a spiritual experience.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🅿️ Street Parking Available
You can usually find parking on nearby streets. Follow blue signs for the entrance. :car:
🙏 Attend a Service
Experience a spiritual moment by attending an English mass, often on Sundays. :church:
📜 Learn the History
Discover the stories within, especially the legend of Paul and Virginie. :book:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🅿️ Street Parking Available
You can usually find parking on nearby streets. Follow blue signs for the entrance. :car:
🙏 Attend a Service
Experience a spiritual moment by attending an English mass, often on Sundays. :church:
📜 Learn the History
Discover the stories within, especially the legend of Paul and Virginie. :book:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Francis of Assisi Church for its magnificent architecture and historical significance as the oldest Catholic church in Mauritius. Many found attending the English mass service to be a blessed and excellent experience. The presence of the Paul and Virginie statue adds a unique touch of local legend.
"Nice church
Heard a English mass here on Sunday at 10 a.m"
Dias
"Amaizing attending english mass here,felt blessed🙏"
gladys mshangai
"This church is a magnificent building and it is really massive. It is the oldest catholic church in Mauritius. You can park nearby on the streets and the church is open for visitors, follow the blue signs to the entrance gate. There is a beautiful statue of Paul and Virginie who are buried here in the story."
Riki Armstrong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Pamplemousses. You can reach it by car or taxi. Street parking is generally available nearby. Look for blue signs indicating the entrance.
While specific bus routes can vary, public buses do serve the Pamplemousses area. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there is no admission fee to enter the church. It is open for visitors to explore its historical and architectural beauty.
The church is generally open for visitors, but it's best to check for specific hours, especially if you plan to visit outside of mass times. It's an active place of worship.
Yes, you can attend mass services. English mass is often held on Sundays around 10 AM, offering a chance to experience the church during worship.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the church's art and architecture. A notable feature is the statue of Paul and Virginie, linked to a famous Mauritian legend.
Photography is usually permitted, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services. Be mindful of other visitors.
As it's a place of worship, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
Information on accessibility can be limited. It's recommended to contact the church directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
It is recognized as the oldest Catholic church in Mauritius, holding significant historical and cultural value for the island.
The church grounds are said to be the burial site of Paul and Virginie, the protagonists of a famous 18th-century French novel set in Mauritius. A statue commemorates them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs
Don't miss the statue of Paul and Virginie, a key element of Mauritian folklore. Understanding their story adds a rich cultural dimension to your visit, connecting the physical site to a beloved literary and historical narrative.
Spiritual Seekers
Even outside of service times, the church's serene environment can offer a moment of quiet reflection. Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, to honor the sanctity of the place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond its religious function, the church is intertwined with a poignant local legend. It is believed to be the resting place of Paul and Virginie, the tragic lovers from Bernardin de Saint-Pierre's famous novel. A statue dedicated to them stands as a reminder of this enduring story, adding a layer of romantic lore to the historical site. Visiting here offers a chance to connect with both the spiritual and the legendary heritage of Mauritius.
Experiencing a Service
Attending a service allows you to witness the church in its primary role as a place of worship. The serene environment, combined with the historical setting, creates a unique ambiance. It's a chance to reflect and appreciate the continuity of faith and tradition within this ancient structure. Remember to dress modestly and maintain a respectful silence during the service.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit