Bank of Mauritius Museum
Discover Mauritius's economic journey through a free museum showcasing global currencies and historical artifacts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Bank of Mauritius Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mauritius's economic journey through a free museum showcasing global currencies and historical artifacts.
"A hidden gem offering a fascinating and free glimpse into the island's economic history."
Free Admission! :moneybag:
Enjoy a wealth of historical knowledge without any entry fee. A true hidden gem for history buffs!
Weekday Wonders :calendar:
Remember, the museum is only open Monday to Friday. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Global Currency Collection
Main Exhibition Hall
See coins and notes from the 11th century to today, spanning Mauritius and international currencies.
Mauritian Economic Evolution
Historical Displays
Trace the island's economic journey through displays detailing its ties to Dutch, French, British, and Indian history.
Artifacts of Finance
Display Cases
Explore historical artifacts that shed light on the country's financial past and currency manufacturing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Priceless History
Weekday Visits & Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! :moneybag:
Enjoy a wealth of historical knowledge without any entry fee. A true hidden gem for history buffs!
Weekday Wonders :calendar:
Remember, the museum is only open Monday to Friday. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Redditors of Mauritius, what is your favourite piece of Architecture on the island?
No Photos, Just Memories :camera_with_flash:
Photography is not allowed inside. Soak in the exhibits and create lasting memories instead.
Friendly Staff :smiley:
Expect a warm welcome and attentive service from the museum representatives.
Where do 30+ year old hang out, especially the single ones?
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! :moneybag:
Enjoy a wealth of historical knowledge without any entry fee. A true hidden gem for history buffs!
Weekday Wonders :calendar:
Remember, the museum is only open Monday to Friday. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
No Photos, Just Memories :camera_with_flash:
Photography is not allowed inside. Soak in the exhibits and create lasting memories instead.
Friendly Staff :smiley:
Expect a warm welcome and attentive service from the museum representatives.
Interactive Wishlist :speech_balloon:
While exhibits are detailed, some visitors wish for more interactive elements or guided tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bank of Mauritius Museum as a hidden gem offering a fascinating and free glimpse into the island's economic history. The extensive collection of global currencies and well-preserved artifacts are highlights, complemented by friendly staff. Some wish for more interactive exhibits, but overall, it's highly recommended for its educational value.
"A really insightful place to learn about the historical currencies of Mauritius. Information given about the history, significance and the evolution of money in this country.
A hidden gem really as you get to learn about the history of the country that is linked to the history of the Netherlands, France, Britain and even India too.
Lots of well preserved coins and notes down the years too and not just Mauritian, but from the world over.
The staff are friendly and attentive.
Strongly recommended to visit."
Silent Haych
"While the collection and exposition were well presented and quite detailed, it would be nicer to have some more interactive features like being able to restart the slideshows or having a guide talking you through the different stations.
Overall, it's good to see more of these places of memory in Mauritius."
Madhuri Rasika J-Ng
"Such a neat and clean place looks like a 7 star hotel lobby, will get warm welcome by the representative with smiling face.
We can see british /UAE/US coins from the 11th century also ,
We can feel the Currency revolution from 11 th century to 21 st century
Many country currencies are show cased.
No entry fee-Free of cost , any one can go, Photography not allowed.
Monday to Friday (9.30 to 4pm)
Saturday Sunday and government holidays remains close."
Baskar Sethupathi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on Rue Bourbon in Port Louis, near the Bank of Mauritius building. It's easily accessible by local transport within the city.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, being in the heart of Port Louis means public parking options are likely available nearby. It's best to check local signage upon arrival.
Many Port Louis city tours may include a stop near the Bank of Mauritius. It's worth inquiring with tour operators about their itineraries.
From Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked transfer to Port Louis. The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
The museum is described as neat and clean, resembling a hotel lobby, suggesting good accessibility. However, it's always advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Bank of Mauritius Museum is completely free of charge. It's a great way to experience history without any cost.
The museum is open from Monday to Friday, between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM. It remains closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and government holidays.
No advance booking is required for general visits. You can simply walk in during opening hours.
While no specific dress code is mentioned, it's a place of historical significance. Dressing respectfully is always recommended when visiting museums.
For group visits, especially educational ones like the site visit mentioned, it's best to contact the Bank of Mauritius in advance to arrange your visit and ensure they can accommodate your group.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a rich collection of historical currencies, including coins and notes from Mauritius and around the world, dating back to the 11th century. Artifacts related to economic history are also displayed.
No, photography is strictly not allowed inside the Bank of Mauritius Museum. Visitors are encouraged to focus on experiencing the exhibits firsthand.
While not explicitly stated, some visitors have expressed a desire for more guided tours or interactive elements. It's possible to inquire about any available services upon arrival.
Yes, the museum is considered informative for children, with exhibits that can capture their interest, such as coins from different eras.
The museum is described as neat, clean, and welcoming, with a feel akin to a 7-star hotel lobby, ensuring a pleasant visitor experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Bank of Mauritius Museum does not have its own dining facilities. However, being located in Port Louis, there are numerous restaurants and cafes nearby to choose from.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside museum exhibition areas to preserve the artifacts. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.
Port Louis offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from local Mauritian street food at the Central Market to various restaurants serving international cuisine. You can find options to suit any budget and taste.
Yes, the area around Rue Bourbon and the nearby commercial districts in Port Louis will have several bakeries and cafes offering quick snacks and beverages.
For authentic Mauritian flavors, explore the eateries around the Central Market or ask locals for their favorite 'table d'hôte' (home-style cooking) spots in the city.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is not allowed inside the museum. This policy is in place to protect the historical artifacts and ensure the integrity of the exhibits.
Generally, photography of the exterior of government buildings like the Bank of Mauritius might have some restrictions. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful when taking photos of the building's exterior.
While you can't photograph the exhibits, you can capture the impressive architecture of the Bank of Mauritius building from the outside. The surrounding Port Louis streets also offer urban photography opportunities.
Based on visitor feedback, photography is not permitted within the exhibition spaces. There are no specific areas mentioned where it is allowed inside.
The prohibition on photography is common in museums to prevent flash photography from damaging delicate artifacts and to maintain a focused viewing experience for all visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't many overtly 'kid-themed' exhibits, the visual aspect of seeing old coins and understanding how money has changed can be captivating. The museum's clean and neat environment is also conducive to a pleasant family outing. Remember that photography is not allowed, so encourage your children to observe and discuss what they see.
🤓 History Buffs & Economists
The museum provides a detailed look at the evolution of money, from ancient times to the present day. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the significance of currency in shaping a nation's identity and development. The well-preserved artifacts and informative displays are sure to satisfy even the most discerning history enthusiast.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Port Louis, like the Central Market or the waterfront, to create a full day of exploration that's easy on the wallet. Just remember to bring your curiosity and leave your camera behind, as photography is not permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Currency of Mauritius: A Historical Journey
One of the most striking aspects of the museum is its display of coins and notes from across the globe, some dating back as far as the 11th century. This international perspective underscores the role of trade and global economics in Mauritius's development. The museum meticulously presents this narrative through well-preserved artifacts and informative displays, making complex economic history accessible and engaging for all ages.
While the exhibits are rich in detail, some visitors have noted a desire for more interactive elements. However, the sheer breadth of the collection and the clarity of the historical context provided make it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in history, economics, or the story of money. The friendly staff further enhance the experience, offering a warm welcome to this educational space.
Planning Your Visit: Hours, Access, and Etiquette
Entry to the museum is free of charge, making it an excellent value for tourists and locals alike. This accessibility allows a broad audience to explore the fascinating history of Mauritian currency. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted warmly by attentive staff, contributing to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
A significant rule to remember is that photography is not permitted inside the museum. This policy is standard for many historical institutions to protect the delicate artifacts on display. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the exhibits and create memories rather than relying on photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit