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{{Redirect|Port-Louis||Port Louis (disambiguation)}} |
{{Redirect|Port-Louis||Port Louis (disambiguation)}} |
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{{refimprove|date=July 2011}} |
{{refimprove|date=July 2011}} |
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{{Infobox settlement |
{{Infobox settlement |
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<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions --> |
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|official_name = Port Louis |
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| name = Port Louis<!-- at least one of the first two fields must be filled in --> |
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|other_name = |
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| official_name = |
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|native_name = <!-- for cities whose native name is not in English --> |
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| native_name = <!-- if different from the English name --> |
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| native_name_lang = "fr"<!-- ISO 639-2 code e.g. "fr" for French. If more than one, use {{lang}} instead --> |
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| other_name = |
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| settlement_type = City<!-- such as Town, Village, City, Borough etc. --> |
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<!-- transliteration(s) --------> |
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|image_caption = Aerial view of Port Louis and harbour. |
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| translit_lang1 = |
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|image_flag = Flag of Mauritius.svg |
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| translit_lang1_type = |
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|flag_size = 120px |
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| translit_lang1_info = |
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|image_seal = Port Louis arms.jpg |
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| translit_lang1_type1 = |
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|seal_size = 100px |
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| translit_lang1_info1 = |
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|image_shield = |
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| translit_lang1_type2 = |
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|shield_size = |
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| translit_lang1_info2 = <!-- etc., up to translit_lang1_type6 / translit_lang1_info6 --> |
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|image_blank_emblem = |
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| translit_lang2 = |
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| translit_lang2_type = |
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|image_map = Mauritius-Port Louis District.svg |
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| translit_lang2_info = |
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|mapsize = 200px |
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| translit_lang2_type1 = |
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|map_caption = |
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| translit_lang2_info1 = |
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|pushpin_map = <!-- the name of a location map as per http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Location_map --> |
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| translit_lang2_type2 = |
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|pushpin_label_position = <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none --> |
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| translit_lang2_info2 = |
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|coordinates_region = MU |
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| translit_lang2_info2 = <!-- etc., up to translit_lang2_type6 / translit_lang2_info6 --> |
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|subdivision_type = Country <!--Country--> |
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<!-- images, nickname, motto ---> |
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|subdivision_name = [[Mauritius]] <!--the name of the country--> |
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| image_skyline = Evening Port Louis.jpg |
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| imagesize = |
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| image_alt = |
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| image_caption = Aerial view of Port Louis in evening |
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|subdivision_name2 = |
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| image = <!-- other image (specify File: or Image: namespace) --> |
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|subdivision_type3 = |
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| image_flag = |
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| flag_size = |
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| flag_alt = |
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| flag_link = |
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| image_seal = Port Louis arms.jpg |
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| seal_size = 100px |
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| seal_alt = |
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| seal_link = |
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| image_shield = |
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| shield_size = |
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| shield_alt = |
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| shield_link = |
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| image_blank_emblem = |
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|leader_title4 = |
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| blank_emblem_type = <!-- defaults to Logo --> |
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| blank_emblem_size = |
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| blank_emblem_alt = |
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| blank_emblem_link = |
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| nickname = |
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| motto = "CONCORDIA ET PROGRESSIO" <br />([[English language|English]] for "Harmony and progress") |
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| anthem = |
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<!-- maps and coordinates ------> |
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| image_map = |
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| mapsize = |
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| map_alt = |
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| map_caption = |
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| image_map1 = |
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| mapsize1 = |
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| map_alt1 = |
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| map_caption1 = |
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| image_dot_map = |
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| dot_mapsize = |
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| dot_map_base_alt = |
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| dot_map_alt = |
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| dot_map_caption = |
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| dot_x = |dot_y = |
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| pushpin_map = Mauritius <!-- name of a location map as per Template:Location_map --> |
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| pushpin_label_position = right <!-- position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none --> |
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| pushpin_label = Port Louis <!-- only necessary if "name" or "official_name" are too long --> |
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| pushpin_map_alt = |
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| pushpin_mapsize = 230px |
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| pushpin_map_caption = Municipal Council location |
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| pushpin_map1 = |
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| pushpin_label_position1 = |
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| pushpin_label1 = <!-- only necessary if "name" or "official_name" are too long --> |
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| pushpin_map_alt1 = |
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| pushpin_mapsize1 = |
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| pushpin_map_caption1 = |
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| latd = 20 |latm = 9 |lats = 51.789 |latNS = S |
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| longd = 57 |longm = 30 |longs = 14.776 |longEW = E |
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| coor_pinpoint = <!-- to specify exact location of coordinates (was coor_type) --> |
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| coordinates_region = MU <!-- ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 or ISO 3166-2 code for country/region containing the coordinates --> |
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| coordinates_type = <!-- parameter list passed to Coord template, overrides coordinates_region --> |
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| coordinates_display = inline,title |
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| coordinates_format = dms |
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| coordinates_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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<!-- location ------------------> |
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| subdivision_type = Country |
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| subdivision_name = {{flagicon|Mauritius}} [[Mauritius]]<!-- the name of the country --> |
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| subdivision_type1 = [[Districts and dependencies of Mauritius|Districts]] |
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| subdivision_name1 = [[Port Louis District]] |
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| subdivision_type2 = |
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| subdivision_name2 = <!-- etc., subdivision_type6 / subdivision_name6 --> |
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<!-- established ---------------> |
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| established_title = Settled <!-- Settled --> |
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| established_date = 1721 |
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| established_title1 = <!-- Incorporated (town) --> |
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| established_date1 = |
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| established_title2 = <!-- Incorporated (city) --> |
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| established_date2 = |
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| established_title3 = |
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| established_date3 = |
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| extinct_title = |
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| extinct_date = |
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| founder = |
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| named_for = |
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<!-- seat, smaller parts -------> |
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| seat_type = <!-- defaults to: Seat --> |
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| seat = |
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| parts_type = <!-- defaults to: Boroughs --> |
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| parts_style = <!-- list, coll (collapsed list), para (paragraph format) --> |
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| parts = <!-- parts text, or header for parts list --> |
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| p1 = |
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| p2 = <!-- etc., up to p50: for separate parts to be listed--> |
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<!-- government type, leaders --> |
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| government_footnotes = <ref name="mem">{{cite journal|url=http://www.gov.mu/portal/site/mlge/menuitem.f9c1c444c628df3cb3347524e2b521ca/#br|publisher=Government of Mauritius|title=Municipal & District Councils in Mauritius|accessdate=24 July 2012}}</ref> <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| government_type = [[Mayor–council government|Mayor-council]] |
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| governing_body = |
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| leader_party = |
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| leader_title = Lord Mayor |
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| leader_name = Dr. Mahmad Aniff Kodabaccus |
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| leader_title1 = Deputy Lord Mayor |
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| leader_name1 = Mr. Marie Désiré Audie Paul Travailleur |
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| leader_title2 = |
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| leader_name2 = {{Collapsible list |
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|title = Members' List |
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|frame_style = border:none; padding: 0; |
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|title_style = <!-- (optional) --> |
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|list_style = text-align:left;display:none; |
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|1 = • |
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|2 = • |
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}} |
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|established_title = Founded |
|established_title = Founded |
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|established_date = 1735 |
|established_date = 1735 |
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|established_date2 = |
|established_date2 = |
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|established_title3 = City status |
|established_title3 = City status |
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|established_date3 = |
|established_date3 = 25 August 1966 |
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<!-- display settings ---------> |
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|area_magnitude = |
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| total_type = <!-- to set a non-standard label for total area and population rows --> |
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|area_footnotes = |
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| unit_pref = <!-- enter: Imperial, to display imperial before metric --> |
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|area_total_km2 = 42.7 |
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<!-- area ----------------------> |
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|area_land_km2 = |
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| area_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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|area_water_km2 = |
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| area_magnitude = <!-- use only to set a special wikilink --> |
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|area_water_percent = |
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| area_total_km2 = 43<!-- ALL fields with measurements have automatic unit conversion --> |
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|area_urban_km2 = 6.3 |
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| area_total_sq_mi = <!-- see table @ Template:Infobox settlement for details --> |
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|area_metro_km2 = |
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| area_total_dunam = <!-- used in Middle East articles only --> |
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|population_as_of = 2010 est. |
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| area_land_km2 = |
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|population_footnotes = <ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gov.mu/portal/goc/cso/ei880/toc.htm|title=Population and Vital Statistics, Republic of Mauritius, Year 2010 - Highlights |publisher=Central Statistics Office (Mauritius)|accessdate=2011-10-02 |month=March | year=2010}}</ref> |
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| area_land_sq_mi = |
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|population_note = 31 Dec. 2010 |
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| area_water_km2 = |
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|settlement_type = <!--For Town or Village (Leave blank for the default City)--> |
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| area_water_sq_mi = |
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|population_total = 128,483 |
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| area_water_percent = |
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|population_density_km2 = 3008.9 |
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| area_urban_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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|population_metro = |
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| area_urban_km2 = |
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|population_density_metro_km2 = |
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| area_urban_sq_mi = |
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|population_urban = 148,416 |
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| area_rural_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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|population_density_urban_km2 = |
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| area_rural_km2 = |
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|timezone = [[Mauritius Time|MUT]] |
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| area_rural_sq_mi = |
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|utc_offset = +4 |
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| area_metro_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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|timezone_DST = |
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| area_metro_km2 = |
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| area_metro_sq_mi = |
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|latd= 20|latm= 10|latNS=S |
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| area_rank = |
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|longd= 57|longm= 30|longEW=E |
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| area_blank1_title = |
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|elevation_footnotes = <!--for references: use<ref></ref> tags--> |
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| area_blank1_km2 = |
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| area_blank1_sq_mi = |
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| area_blank2_title = |
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|postal_code_type = <!-- enter ZIP code, Postcode, Post code, Postal code... --> |
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| area_blank2_km2 = |
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| area_blank2_sq_mi = |
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| area_note = |
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|website = [http://mpl.intnet.mu/home.htm mpl.intnet.mu/home.htm] |
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<!-- elevation -----------------> |
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|footnotes = |
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| elevation_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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}} <!-- Infobox ends --> |
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| elevation_m = |
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| elevation_ft = |
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| elevation_max_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| elevation_max_m = |
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| elevation_max_ft = |
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| elevation_min_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| elevation_min_m = |
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| elevation_min_ft = |
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<!-- population ----------------> |
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| population_footnotes = <ref name="Pop">{{cite journal|url=http://www.gov.mu/portal/goc/cso/report/natacc/demo10/demo10.pdf|title=Digest Of Demographic Statistics 2010|publisher=Government of Mauritius|page=33|accessdate=24 July 2012}}</ref><!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| population_total = 148,416 |
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| population_as_of = 31 December 2010 |
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| population_rank = 1st in Mauritius |
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| population_density_km2 = auto<!-- for automatic calculation of any density field, use: auto --> |
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| population_density_sq_mi= |
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| population_est = |
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| pop_est_as_of = |
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| population_urban = |
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| population_density_urban_km2 = |
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| population_density_urban_sq_mi = |
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| population_rural = |
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| population_density_rural_km2 = |
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| population_density_rural_sq_mi = |
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| population_metro = |
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| population_density_metro_km2 = |
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| population_density_metro_sq_mi = |
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| population_density = |
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| population_density_rank = |
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| population_blank1_title = |
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| population_blank1 = |
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| population_density_blank1_km2 = |
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| population_density_blank1_sq_mi= |
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| population_blank2_title = |
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| population_blank2 = |
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| population_density_blank2_km2 = |
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| population_density_blank2_sq_mi= |
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| population_demonym = Portluisian<!-- demonym, ie. Liverpudlian for someone from Liverpool --> |
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| population_note = |
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<!-- demographics (section 1) --> |
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| demographics_type1 = |
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| demographics1_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| demographics1_title1 = |
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| demographics1_info1 = <!-- etc., up to demographics1_title5 / demographics1_info5 --> |
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<!-- demographics (section 2) --> |
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| demographics_type2 = |
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| demographics2_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags --> |
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| demographics2_title1 = |
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| demographics2_info1 = <!-- etc., up to demographics2_title5 / demographics2_info5 --> |
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<!-- time zone(s) --------------> |
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| timezone1 = [[Mauritius Time|MUT]] |
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| utc_offset1 = +4 |
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| timezone1_DST = |
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| utc_offset1_DST = |
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| timezone2 = |
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| utc_offset2 = |
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| timezone2_DST = |
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| utc_offset2_DST = |
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<!-- postal codes, area code ---> |
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| postal_code_type = <!-- enter ZIP code, Postcode, Post code, Postal code... --> |
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| postal_code = |
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| postal2_code_type = <!-- enter ZIP code, Postcode, Post code, Postal code... --> |
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| postal2_code = |
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| area_code_type = <!-- defaults to: Area code(s) --> |
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| area_code = |
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| geocode = |
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| iso_code = |
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| registration_plate = |
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<!-- twin cities ---------------> |
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| twin1 = |
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| twin1_country = |
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| twin2 = |
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| twin2_country = <!-- etc., up to twin9 / twin9_country --> |
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<!-- blank fields (section 1) --> |
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| blank_name_sec1 = Airport |
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| blank_info_sec1 = [[Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport|Plaisance Airport]] (distanced approximately 29 km) |
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| blank1_name_sec1 = |
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| blank1_info_sec1 = |
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| blank2_name_sec1 = |
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| blank2_info_sec1 = <!-- etc., up to blank7_name_sec1 / blank7_info_sec1 --> |
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<!-- blank fields (section 2) --> |
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| blank_name_sec2 = |
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| blank_info_sec2 = |
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| blank1_name_sec2 = |
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| blank1_info_sec2 = |
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| blank2_name_sec2 = |
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| blank2_info_sec2 = <!-- etc., up to blank7_name_sec2 / blank7_info_sec2 --> |
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<!-- website, footnotes --------> |
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| website = {{URL|http://mpl.intnet.mu/home.htm|Municipal Council}} |
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| footnotes = |
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}} |
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'''Port Louis''' ({{ |
'''Port Louis''' ({{IPAc-en|icon|p|ɔ|ʁ|l|w|i}}), is the [[Capital (political)|capital]] and largest city of [[Mauritius]]. Located on the northwest of Mauritius, it is the most populous city of the island nation with a population of 148,416 as of December 2010.<ref name="Pop"/> Port Louis is the country's economic, cultural and political centre. The city has the highest [[Quality of Living Survey|quality of Living]] in [[Africa]], it is home to biggest port facility in the [[Indian Ocean]] region and one of [[Africa]]’s major financial centres.<ref name="Port">{{cite journal|url=http://www.worldportsource.com/ports/MUS_Port_of_Port_Louis_2331.php|title=Port of Port Louis|publisher=World Port Source|accessdate=24 July 2012}}</ref> |
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==Etymology== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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==History== |
==History== |
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{{Expand section|date=July 2012}} |
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[[Image:Port Louis Mauritius Theatre.jpg|thumb|165px|right|The Port Louis theatre from 1900 to 1910]] |
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[[Image:Port Louis Theatre Mauritius 1950s.jpg|thumb|165px|right|The Port Louis theatre in early 1950s]] |
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Port Louis was already in use as a harbor in 1638. In 1735, under [[France|French]] government, it became the administrative center of Mauritius and a major reprovisioning halt for French ships travelling around the [[Cape of Good Hope]]. The Port is named in honour of King [[Louis XV of France|Louis XV]]. The first Governor was [[Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais|Count Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais]]. |
Port Louis was already in use as a harbor in 1638. In 1735, under [[France|French]] government, it became the administrative center of Mauritius and a major reprovisioning halt for French ships travelling around the [[Cape of Good Hope]]. The Port is named in honour of King [[Louis XV of France|Louis XV]]. The first Governor was [[Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais|Count Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais]]. |
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== |
==Geography== |
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{{Expand section|date=July 2012}} |
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The population of the city is now largely made up of the descendants of laborers who were hired for labour from [[India]] in the 19th century. Slaves were previously introduced by the British and French who colonized the island in the 18th century. After the abolition of slavery in 1835, many Indian and Chinese workers were brought to work the land, and cultivate sugar cane, at that time used to produce [[rum]]. The [[Immigration Depot]] in Port Louis is a [[World Heritage Site]] commemorating this great migration. |
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Currently, the majority of the population, more than 75 percent, are Indians of mixed origins (a significant percentage being followers of the Hindu and Muslim faith), with the rest from [[Africa]] and a minority of [[China|Chinese]] and [[Eurasian (mixed ancestry)|Eurasian]]. |
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==Climate== |
===Climate=== |
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Port Louis features a [[tropical wet and dry climate]] with a lengthy [[wet season]] and a short [[dry season]]. Its wettest months are from December through April where on average 100mm (or more) of rain falls during each of these month. The months of September through November forms the dry season, though technically July, with an average of just under 60 mm of precipitation, could be considered a dry season month. The city also shows a noticeable range of average temperatures. Port Louis’ coolest temperatures are seen mid-year where average high temperatures are around 24°C. During the height of the wet season, the city sees its highest temperatures where average high temperatures are usually around 30°C. |
Port Louis features a [[tropical wet and dry climate]] with a lengthy [[wet season]] and a short [[dry season]]. Its wettest months are from December through April where on average 100mm (or more) of rain falls during each of these month. The months of September through November forms the dry season, though technically July, with an average of just under 60 mm of precipitation, could be considered a dry season month. The city also shows a noticeable range of average temperatures. Port Louis’ coolest temperatures are seen mid-year where average high temperatures are around 24°C. During the height of the wet season, the city sees its highest temperatures where average high temperatures are usually around 30°C. |
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== |
==Subdivision== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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The economy is dominated by its port, which handles Mauritius' international trade. The port was founded by the French who preferred Port Louis as the City is shielded by the Port Louis/Moka mountain range. It is the largest container handling facility in the Indian Ocean and can accommodate fourth and fifth generation container vessels. At present, only [[Cape Town]] and Port Louis can achieve that in Sub-Saharan Africa.<ref>{{cite web |last=Port Strategy|title=Feeder king |publisher=portstrategy.com |url=http://www.portstrategy.com/features101/area-survey/africa2/indian-ocean/feeder_king |accessdate=2012-01-01}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> However, existing equipments in the port are overstretched and delays frequently occur. Two new [[Portainer|gantry cranes]] (to be delivered in December 2007) will boost annual throughput capacity. Manufacturing is dominated by clothing and [[textiles]], but also includes [[Chemical industry|chemicals]], [[plastic]]s, and [[pharmaceuticals]]. |
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[[Tourism]] is also important. The development of the [[Caudan Waterfront]], central to Port Louis, with shopping and cinema facilities, appeals to tourists visiting the city. The 5 star Labourdonnais hotel located in the Caudan Waterfront is a popular choice for tourists and business people seeking luxury in a central location. Port Louis is the second most important financial center in Africa after [[Johannesburg]]. It is the city with the highest per capita income in Africa.{{Citation needed|date=April 2008}} |
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== |
==Demographics== |
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The population of the city is now largely made up of the descendants of laborers who were hired for labour from [[India]] in the 19th century. Slaves were previously introduced by the British and French who colonized the island in the 18th century. After the abolition of slavery in 1835, many Indian and Chinese workers were brought to work the land, and cultivate sugar cane, at that time used to produce [[rum]]. The [[Immigration Depot]] in Port Louis is a [[World Heritage Site]] commemorating this great migration. |
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Between 1860s and 1960s, the island had a railway system centred on Port Louis. In 2009, due to growing road traffic congestion, consideration is being given to introducing a metro system.{{citation needed|date=January 2012}} |
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Currently, the majority of the population, more than 75 percent, are Indians of mixed origins (a significant percentage being followers of the Hindu and Muslim faith), with the rest from [[Africa]] and a minority of [[China|Chinese]] and [[Eurasian (mixed ancestry)|Eurasian]]. |
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===Air=== |
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Air transportation to the city is provided by [[Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport|SSR International Airport]]. [[Air Mauritius]], the national airline of Mauritius, has its head office in the Air Mauritius Centre in the city.<ref>"[http://www.airmauritius.com/contactus.htm World Offices]." [[Air Mauritius]]. Retrieved on 21 June 2010.</ref> |
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=== |
===Education=== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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Port Louis is served by two major bus stations. Victoria Station is used by buses to and from the eastern and southern areas, and from the urbanized Plaines Wilhems district. Immigration Square, also known as Gare du Nord, is a terminus for buses coming from the Northern districts of Pamplemousses and Rivière du Rempart. |
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==Economy== |
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Additionally, buses can use other bus stops as points of termination, e.g. John Kennedy Street and Sir William Newton Street for "City Centre" buses. A number of inter-city buses carry passengers to and from nearby suburbs such as Plaine Verte, Vallée-des-Prêtres and Cassis, making Port Louis the Mauritian hub for bus transport. |
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The economy is dominated by its port, which handles Mauritius' international trade. The port was founded by the French who preferred Port Louis as the City is shielded by the Port Louis/Moka mountain range. It is the largest container handling facility in the Indian Ocean and can accommodate fourth and fifth generation container vessels. At present, only [[Cape Town]] and Port Louis can achieve that in Sub-Saharan Africa.<ref>{{cite web |last=Port Strategy|title=Feeder king |publisher=portstrategy.com |url=http://www.portstrategy.com/features101/area-survey/africa2/indian-ocean/feeder_king |accessdate=2012-01-01}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> However, existing equipments in the port are overstretched and delays frequently occur. Two new [[Portainer|gantry cranes]] (to be delivered in December 2007) will boost annual throughput capacity. Manufacturing is dominated by clothing and [[textiles]], but also includes [[Chemical industry|chemicals]], [[plastic]]s, and [[pharmaceuticals]]. |
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[[Tourism]] is also important. The development of the [[Caudan Waterfront]], central to Port Louis, with shopping and cinema facilities, appeals to tourists visiting the city. The 5 star Labourdonnais hotel located in the Caudan Waterfront is a popular choice for tourists and business people seeking luxury in a central location. Port Louis is the second most important financial center in Africa after [[Johannesburg]]. It is the city with the highest per capita income in Africa.{{Citation needed|date=April 2008}} |
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===Transportation=== |
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This is not without problems. All major bus lines from the rest of Mauritius converge towards Port Louis, which creates traffic congestion issues when combined with the number of private cars doing the same. Both stations, Victoria and Immigration, are small and often saturated both in terms of passenger frequentation and number of buses arriving and departing. In addition, the presence of hawkers nearby and the absence of designated walking areas for passengers creates safety issues. |
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Between 1860s and 1960s, the island had a railway system centred on Port Louis. In 2009, due to growing road traffic congestion, consideration is being given to introducing a metro system.{{citation needed|date=January 2012}} Air transportation to the city is provided by [[Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport|SSR International Airport]]. [[Air Mauritius]], the national airline of Mauritius, has its head office in the Air Mauritius Centre in the city.<ref>"[http://www.airmauritius.com/contactus.htm World Offices]." [[Air Mauritius]]. Retrieved on 21 June 2010.</ref> Port Louis is served by two major bus stations. Victoria Station is used by buses to and from the eastern and southern areas, and from the urbanized Plaines Wilhems district. Immigration Square, also known as Gare du Nord, is a terminus for buses coming from the Northern districts of Pamplemousses and Rivière du Rempart. Additionally, buses can use other bus stops as points of termination, e.g. John Kennedy Street and Sir William Newton Street for "City Centre" buses. A number of inter-city buses carry passengers to and from nearby suburbs such as Plaine Verte, Vallée-des-Prêtres and Cassis, making Port Louis the Mauritian hub for bus transport. This is not without problems. All major bus lines from the rest of Mauritius converge towards Port Louis, which creates traffic congestion issues when combined with the number of private cars doing the same. Both stations, Victoria and Immigration, are small and often saturated both in terms of passenger frequentation and number of buses arriving and departing. In addition, the presence of hawkers nearby and the absence of designated walking areas for passengers creates safety issues. |
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==Notable residents== |
|||
Port Louis has attracted various artists and writers in the past, among the most renowned of them are [[Bernardin de Saint Pierre]], [[Mark Twain]], [[Nicholas Pike]], [[Charles Baudelaire]], and [[Paul-Jean Toulet]]. Mauritian writers like [[Malcolm de Chazal]], [[Marcel Cabon]], [[Moose Allain]], Félix Laventure, [[Loys Masson]] and [[Marie-Thérèse Humbert]] chose Port Louis and its vicinities as locations for some of their novels and poetry. Other Port Louis born [[poets]] and writers, like [[Robert Edward Hart]] and [[Khal Torabully]], also made of this intricate and fascinating town the setting of some of their texts. |
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==Attractions and sights== |
==Attractions and sights== |
||
[[File:Mauritius 23.08.2009 06-07-46.jpg|thumb|Caudan Waterfront]] |
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[[Image:Port Louis Skyline.JPG|thumb|400px|View of Port Louis and harbour looking west from the Citadel]] |
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[[Image:Port Louis from Le Pouce.jpg|thumb|400px|View of Port Louis from Le Pouce]] |
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Port Louis has conserved many historic and colonial buildings through the years. One of them is a fortification named [[Fort Adelaide]] or La Citadelle, built by the British in 1835. The latter dominates the city. From there, one can observe most of the city's architecture. Port Louis is surrounded by a mountain range, called the [[Moka Range]]. Among its most famous mountains are [[Le Pouce]] and [[Pieter Both (mountain)|Pieter Both]] which stand about 800 metres from sea level. The country's national derby called [[Champ de Mars]], which is the oldest race course (1812) in the Indian Ocean and the second oldest in the southern Hemisphere. Attractions include the [[Caudan Waterfront]], [[Port Louis Market]], the [[Mauritian Chinatown]], the old [[Port Louis Theatre]]. Other famous destinations include the Police Barracks known as Les Casernes and The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre. The capital has also three museums which are: the Mauritius Natural History Museum, the [[Blue Penny Museum]] and the [[Mauritius Postal Museum]]. The biggest and oldest post office in Mauritius is found near the Caudan Waterfront. Situated in the heart of the city, near the [[State Bank Tower]], the Place d'Armes is easily recognizable by its tall palm trees. It is the main entrance to and out of Port Louis. |
Port Louis has conserved many historic and colonial buildings through the years. One of them is a fortification named [[Fort Adelaide]] or La Citadelle, built by the British in 1835. The latter dominates the city. From there, one can observe most of the city's architecture. Port Louis is surrounded by a mountain range, called the [[Moka Range]]. Among its most famous mountains are [[Le Pouce]] and [[Pieter Both (mountain)|Pieter Both]] which stand about 800 metres from sea level. The country's national derby called [[Champ de Mars]], which is the oldest race course (1812) in the Indian Ocean and the second oldest in the southern Hemisphere. Attractions include the [[Caudan Waterfront]], [[Port Louis Market]], the [[Mauritian Chinatown]], the old [[Port Louis Theatre]]. Other famous destinations include the Police Barracks known as Les Casernes and The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre. The capital has also three museums which are: the Mauritius Natural History Museum, the [[Blue Penny Museum]] and the [[Mauritius Postal Museum]]. The biggest and oldest post office in Mauritius is found near the Caudan Waterfront. Situated in the heart of the city, near the [[State Bank Tower]], the Place d'Armes is easily recognizable by its tall palm trees. It is the main entrance to and out of Port Louis. |
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The [[skyline]] of Port Louis has completely changed in the last fifteen years mainly due to construction booms in the 1990s and 2000s, where many of the tallest high-rise buildings have been built. The city centre has the [[Bank Of Mauritius Headquarters|tallest buildings]] in Mauritius, including a few skyscrapers, which is unusual for a small island in Africa. Port Louis is currently undergoing a major construction boom with the extension of the [[Caudan Waterfront]]. |
The [[skyline]] of Port Louis has completely changed in the last fifteen years mainly due to construction booms in the 1990s and 2000s, where many of the tallest high-rise buildings have been built. The city centre has the [[Bank Of Mauritius Headquarters|tallest buildings]] in Mauritius, including a few skyscrapers, which is unusual for a small island in Africa. Port Louis is currently undergoing a major construction boom with the extension of the [[Caudan Waterfront]]. |
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==Culture== |
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[[Image:Mauritius 23.08.2009 06-07-46.jpg|thumb|800px| Caudan Waterfront]] |
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===Religion=== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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== |
===Cuisine=== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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The [[Champ de Mars Racecourse]] is a race track for [[Thoroughbred horse race]]s located close to the centre of Port Louis founded in 1812. |
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== |
===Litterature=== |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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<center><gallery perrow="4" widths="175"> |
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Image:Port-Louis (Maurice) 1835.jpg|Historical painting of Port Louis from 1835 by [[Cyrille Pierre Théodore Laplace]] |
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===Architecture=== |
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Image:Port Louis 2005.JPG|Buildings at Port Louis. |
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{{Empty section|date=July 2012}} |
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Image:Caudan waterfront (13).jpg|Skyscrapers from Caudan Waterfront |
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Image:Caudan waterfront (14).jpg|Silos of Les Moulins de la Concorde. |
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===Sport=== |
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Image:Rajiv gandhi science centre .jpg|Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in Port Louis. |
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{{Expand section|date=July 2012}} |
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</gallery></center> |
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The [[Champ de Mars Racecourse]] is a race track for [[Thoroughbred horse race]]s located close to the centre of Port Louis founded in 1812. |
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==Panorama image== |
==Panorama image== |
||
{{wide image|Port_Louis_Panorama.jpg|900px|<center>A [[Panorama|panoramic]] view of Port Louis showing the [[Champ de Mars Racecourse]] (left) and the city centre (right).</center>}} |
{{wide image|Port_Louis_Panorama.jpg|900px|<center>A [[Panorama|panoramic]] view of Port Louis showing the [[Champ de Mars Racecourse]] (left) and the city centre (right).</center>}} |
||
==Culture== |
|||
===Notable residents=== |
|||
Port Louis has attracted various artists and writers in the past, among the most renowned of them are [[Bernardin de Saint Pierre]], [[Mark Twain]], [[Nicholas Pike]], [[Charles Baudelaire]], and [[Paul-Jean Toulet]]. Mauritian writers like [[Malcolm de Chazal]], [[Marcel Cabon]], [[Moose Allain]], Félix Laventure, [[Loys Masson]] and [[Marie-Thérèse Humbert]] chose Port Louis and its vicinities as locations for some of their novels and poetry. Other Port Louis born [[poets]] and writers, like [[Robert Edward Hart]] and [[Khal Torabully]], also made of this intricate and fascinating town the setting of some of their texts. |
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==Sister cities== |
==Sister cities== |
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* [[Image:Flag of France.svg|20px|France]] [[La Possession]], since 1979<ref>[http://ville-lapossession.mobius.re/la-possession-ville-des-jumelages.html Ville de la Possession - Jumelages]</ref>. |
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{{unreferenced section|date=December 2011}} |
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* [[Image:Flag of France.svg|20px|France]] [[La Possession]], ([[Réunion]]), since 1979<ref>[http://ville-lapossession.mobius.re/la-possession-ville-des-jumelages.html Ville de la Possession - Jumelages]</ref>. |
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* [[Image:Flag of India.svg|20px|France]] [[Ahmedabad]], India |
* [[Image:Flag of India.svg|20px|France]] [[Ahmedabad]], India |
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* [[Image:Flag of France.svg|20px|France]] [[Saint-Malo]], France since 1999 |
* [[Image:Flag of France.svg|20px|France]] [[Saint-Malo]], France since 1999 |
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==References== |
==References== |
||
{{Reflist}} |
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<div class="references-small"> |
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<references /> |
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* Malcolm de Chazal, Petrusmok, The Standard Printing Est., 1951, La Table Ovale, 1979. |
* Malcolm de Chazal, Petrusmok, The Standard Printing Est., 1951, La Table Ovale, 1979. |
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* Marie-Thérèse Humbert , La montagne des signaux, Paris : Stock, 1994 |
* Marie-Thérèse Humbert , La montagne des signaux, Paris : Stock, 1994 |
||
* Khal Torabully, Kot sa parol la - Rôde parole, poésie en créole et français, éditions Le Printemps, 1996, Maurice. |
* Khal Torabully, Kot sa parol la - Rôde parole, poésie en créole et français, éditions Le Printemps, 1996, Maurice. |
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</div> |
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== External links == |
== External links == |
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{{Commons category|Port Louis}} |
{{Commons category|Port Louis}} |
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* [http://mpl.intnet.mu/home.htm Municipal Council] |
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* [http://www.sunsort.com/guide/mauritius/port-louis/ Port Louis Travel Guide] |
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* [http://mpl.intnet.mu/home.htm Municipal website] |
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* [http://maps.msn.com/%28eu1xln55grztzr55nr5e3p55%29/map.aspx?lats1=-20.166667&lons1=57.516667&alts1=14®n1=2 MSN Map] |
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{{Mauritius topics}} |
{{Mauritius topics}} |
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{{List of African capitals}} |
{{List of African capitals}} |
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{{Coord|20|10|S|57|30|E|region:MU_type:city|display=title}} |
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<!--Categories--> |
<!--Categories--> |
Revision as of 23:36, 23 July 2012
Port Louis | |
---|---|
City | |
![]() Aerial view of Port Louis in evening | |
Official seal of Port Louis Seal | |
Motto(s): "CONCORDIA ET PROGRESSIO" (English for "Harmony and progress") | |
Country | ![]() |
Districts | Port Louis District |
Founded | 1735 |
City status | 25 August 1966 |
Government | |
• Type | Mayor-council |
• Lord Mayor | Dr. Mahmad Aniff Kodabaccus |
• Deputy Lord Mayor | Mr. Marie Désiré Audie Paul Travailleur |
Area | |
• Total | 43 km2 (17 sq mi) |
Population (31 December 2010)[2] | |
• Total | 148,416 |
• Rank | 1st in Mauritius |
• Density | 3,500/km2 (8,900/sq mi) |
Demonym | Portluisian |
Time zone | UTC+4 (MUT) |
Airport | Plaisance Airport (distanced approximately 29 km) |
Website | Municipal Council |
Port Louis (/[invalid input: 'icon']p[invalid input: 'ɔ'][invalid input: 'ʁ']lwi/), is the capital and largest city of Mauritius. Located on the northwest of Mauritius, it is the most populous city of the island nation with a population of 148,416 as of December 2010.[2] Port Louis is the country's economic, cultural and political centre. The city has the highest quality of Living in Africa, it is home to biggest port facility in the Indian Ocean region and one of Africa’s major financial centres.[3]
Etymology
History
Port Louis was already in use as a harbor in 1638. In 1735, under French government, it became the administrative center of Mauritius and a major reprovisioning halt for French ships travelling around the Cape of Good Hope. The Port is named in honour of King Louis XV. The first Governor was Count Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais.
Geography
Climate
Port Louis features a tropical wet and dry climate with a lengthy wet season and a short dry season. Its wettest months are from December through April where on average 100mm (or more) of rain falls during each of these month. The months of September through November forms the dry season, though technically July, with an average of just under 60 mm of precipitation, could be considered a dry season month. The city also shows a noticeable range of average temperatures. Port Louis’ coolest temperatures are seen mid-year where average high temperatures are around 24°C. During the height of the wet season, the city sees its highest temperatures where average high temperatures are usually around 30°C.
Climate data for Port Louis | |||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
Record high °C (°F) | 35 (95) |
33 (91) |
32 (90) |
31 (88) |
29 (84) |
28 (82) |
27 (81) |
27 (81) |
28 (82) |
31 (88) |
33 (91) |
35 (95) |
35 (95) |
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 30 (86) |
29 (84) |
29 (84) |
28 (82) |
26 (79) |
24 (75) |
24 (75) |
24 (75) |
25 (77) |
27 (81) |
28 (82) |
29 (84) |
27 (81) |
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 23 (73) |
23 (73) |
22 (72) |
21 (70) |
19 (66) |
17 (63) |
17 (63) |
17 (63) |
17 (63) |
18 (64) |
19 (66) |
22 (72) |
18 (64) |
Record low °C (°F) | 17 (63) |
18 (64) |
17 (63) |
14 (57) |
13 (55) |
11 (52) |
11 (52) |
10 (50) |
11 (52) |
13 (55) |
14 (57) |
17 (63) |
10 (50) |
Average precipitation mm (inches) | 216 (8.5) |
198 (7.8) |
221 (8.7) |
127 (5.0) |
97 (3.8) |
66 (2.6) |
58 (2.3) |
64 (2.5) |
36 (1.4) |
41 (1.6) |
46 (1.8) |
117 (4.6) |
1,287 (50.7) |
Source: BBC Weather [4] |
Subdivision
Demographics
The population of the city is now largely made up of the descendants of laborers who were hired for labour from India in the 19th century. Slaves were previously introduced by the British and French who colonized the island in the 18th century. After the abolition of slavery in 1835, many Indian and Chinese workers were brought to work the land, and cultivate sugar cane, at that time used to produce rum. The Immigration Depot in Port Louis is a World Heritage Site commemorating this great migration.
Currently, the majority of the population, more than 75 percent, are Indians of mixed origins (a significant percentage being followers of the Hindu and Muslim faith), with the rest from Africa and a minority of Chinese and Eurasian.
Education
Economy
The economy is dominated by its port, which handles Mauritius' international trade. The port was founded by the French who preferred Port Louis as the City is shielded by the Port Louis/Moka mountain range. It is the largest container handling facility in the Indian Ocean and can accommodate fourth and fifth generation container vessels. At present, only Cape Town and Port Louis can achieve that in Sub-Saharan Africa.[5] However, existing equipments in the port are overstretched and delays frequently occur. Two new gantry cranes (to be delivered in December 2007) will boost annual throughput capacity. Manufacturing is dominated by clothing and textiles, but also includes chemicals, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. Tourism is also important. The development of the Caudan Waterfront, central to Port Louis, with shopping and cinema facilities, appeals to tourists visiting the city. The 5 star Labourdonnais hotel located in the Caudan Waterfront is a popular choice for tourists and business people seeking luxury in a central location. Port Louis is the second most important financial center in Africa after Johannesburg. It is the city with the highest per capita income in Africa.[citation needed]
Transportation
Between 1860s and 1960s, the island had a railway system centred on Port Louis. In 2009, due to growing road traffic congestion, consideration is being given to introducing a metro system.[citation needed] Air transportation to the city is provided by SSR International Airport. Air Mauritius, the national airline of Mauritius, has its head office in the Air Mauritius Centre in the city.[6] Port Louis is served by two major bus stations. Victoria Station is used by buses to and from the eastern and southern areas, and from the urbanized Plaines Wilhems district. Immigration Square, also known as Gare du Nord, is a terminus for buses coming from the Northern districts of Pamplemousses and Rivière du Rempart. Additionally, buses can use other bus stops as points of termination, e.g. John Kennedy Street and Sir William Newton Street for "City Centre" buses. A number of inter-city buses carry passengers to and from nearby suburbs such as Plaine Verte, Vallée-des-Prêtres and Cassis, making Port Louis the Mauritian hub for bus transport. This is not without problems. All major bus lines from the rest of Mauritius converge towards Port Louis, which creates traffic congestion issues when combined with the number of private cars doing the same. Both stations, Victoria and Immigration, are small and often saturated both in terms of passenger frequentation and number of buses arriving and departing. In addition, the presence of hawkers nearby and the absence of designated walking areas for passengers creates safety issues.
Notable residents
Port Louis has attracted various artists and writers in the past, among the most renowned of them are Bernardin de Saint Pierre, Mark Twain, Nicholas Pike, Charles Baudelaire, and Paul-Jean Toulet. Mauritian writers like Malcolm de Chazal, Marcel Cabon, Moose Allain, Félix Laventure, Loys Masson and Marie-Thérèse Humbert chose Port Louis and its vicinities as locations for some of their novels and poetry. Other Port Louis born poets and writers, like Robert Edward Hart and Khal Torabully, also made of this intricate and fascinating town the setting of some of their texts.
Attractions and sights
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4a/Mauritius_23.08.2009_06-07-46.jpg/220px-Mauritius_23.08.2009_06-07-46.jpg)
Port Louis has conserved many historic and colonial buildings through the years. One of them is a fortification named Fort Adelaide or La Citadelle, built by the British in 1835. The latter dominates the city. From there, one can observe most of the city's architecture. Port Louis is surrounded by a mountain range, called the Moka Range. Among its most famous mountains are Le Pouce and Pieter Both which stand about 800 metres from sea level. The country's national derby called Champ de Mars, which is the oldest race course (1812) in the Indian Ocean and the second oldest in the southern Hemisphere. Attractions include the Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Market, the Mauritian Chinatown, the old Port Louis Theatre. Other famous destinations include the Police Barracks known as Les Casernes and The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre. The capital has also three museums which are: the Mauritius Natural History Museum, the Blue Penny Museum and the Mauritius Postal Museum. The biggest and oldest post office in Mauritius is found near the Caudan Waterfront. Situated in the heart of the city, near the State Bank Tower, the Place d'Armes is easily recognizable by its tall palm trees. It is the main entrance to and out of Port Louis.
Port Louis is the busiest city in Mauritius. It faces heavy traffic congestion as there is only one motorway which leads in and out of the city. The busiest hours are 8am and 5pm, which roughly correspond to the working hours for the majority of enterprises. Parking is another big problem the city faces. The financial centre is also located there, with the Bank of Mauritius, the Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd and the State Bank of Mauritius, all having their headquarters there. The busiest street is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Street, formerly known as Rue Desforges. It leads directly to the Municipality of Port Louis, the Jummah Mosque, and Kadafi Square, which is a hot place for local food. Ornately and colourfully decorated Tamil temples such as the Kaliammen Kovil and the Tamil temple of Saint-Croix overlook the port. There is a Chinese burial ground where elaborate memorials have been erected. The city morgue at the Kit Lock is located in the centre of the city.
The Mauritius Institute, dedicated to the study of the island's flora and fauna, is in Port Louis. Nearby, in the Jardin de la Compagnie, one can stroll along navigators' and geographers' texts in Travellers' Lane, which also encapsulates an artist's rendering of the planisphere of al-Idrissi. Citizens often climb up the Signaux mountain, which is a 3-km track, that leads to over 300 metres high. From there, one can appreciate the landscape of the city.
The skyline of Port Louis has completely changed in the last fifteen years mainly due to construction booms in the 1990s and 2000s, where many of the tallest high-rise buildings have been built. The city centre has the tallest buildings in Mauritius, including a few skyscrapers, which is unusual for a small island in Africa. Port Louis is currently undergoing a major construction boom with the extension of the Caudan Waterfront.
Culture
Religion
Cuisine
Litterature
Architecture
Sport
The Champ de Mars Racecourse is a race track for Thoroughbred horse races located close to the centre of Port Louis founded in 1812.
Panorama image
Sister cities
La Possession, since 1979[7].
Ahmedabad, India
Saint-Malo, France since 1999
Quebec, Canada
See also
- Railway stations in Mauritius (The railways system was designed mainly for the transportation of goods, mainly sugar, from different part of the country to the city.)
References
- ^ "Municipal & District Councils in Mauritius". Government of Mauritius. Retrieved 24 July 2012.
{{cite journal}}
: Cite journal requires|journal=
(help) - ^ a b "Digest Of Demographic Statistics 2010" (PDF). Government of Mauritius: 33. Retrieved 24 July 2012.
{{cite journal}}
: Cite journal requires|journal=
(help) - ^ "Port of Port Louis". World Port Source. Retrieved 24 July 2012.
{{cite journal}}
: Cite journal requires|journal=
(help) - ^ "Average Conditions Port Louis, Mauritius". BBC Weather. Retrieved August 17, 2009.
- ^ Port Strategy. "Feeder king". portstrategy.com. Retrieved 2012-01-01. [dead link]
- ^ "World Offices." Air Mauritius. Retrieved on 21 June 2010.
- ^ Ville de la Possession - Jumelages
- Malcolm de Chazal, Petrusmok, The Standard Printing Est., 1951, La Table Ovale, 1979.
- Marie-Thérèse Humbert , La montagne des signaux, Paris : Stock, 1994
- Khal Torabully, Kot sa parol la - Rôde parole, poésie en créole et français, éditions Le Printemps, 1996, Maurice.