International Slave Route Monument

The slavery system existed in the islands of the Indian Ocean long before the advent of colonisation. These various societies came into existence through the migrations of the population and ancient slave trades from Africa, Europe and Asia.

Mauritius was known as the ‘Maroon Republic’ for being an important stopover when slave trading was at its peak. From the beginning of the 18th century to the beginning of the 19th century, more than 200,000 slaves were illegally brought into Mauritius and Reunion Island from Malagasy and East African ports by the British. Pier Larson, an American slave historian, said that many slaves died on board on their way before even reaching the destination and that is how the depressing tale of the death of hundreds and thousands of slaves are linked with Mauritius.

Another horrendous event that took place in Mauritius dates back to 1834. The British had passed the Slavery Abolition Act, and thus, a group of police and soldiers were sent to the Le Morne Area to inform the runaway slaves about their newfound right of freedom. However, sadly, on seeing the approaching authorities, the slaves misunderstood that they were about to be recaptured and returned to their masters. Out of fear, they climbed to the peak of the mountain and jumped off the cliff into the ocean, committing mass suicide.

August 23rd is UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade, to commemorate the history of slaves in Mauritius. This day is observed annually in the hopes of creating greater awareness about this rather dark part of Mauritius’ past.

The International Slave Route Monument is located in a garden flushed with native vegetation right at the foot of the Le Morne Brabant Mountain. The sloppy western cliff of the mountain and the refurbished natural environment form the backdrop setting for the monument. It is strategically constructed in this particular area to show its direct connection with the western face of the cliff, the beach and the sea along with the legendary and historical place known as the ‘Valley of Bones’.

The monument comprises of a central sculpture within a big circle that leads to the other sculptures and rocks with engravings. The surrounding arts depict the different countries from where the slaves were brought into Mauritius or vice versa, to those where they were sent via Mauritius. The existing sculptures are representations of countries – Madagascar, Mozambique, India, Malaysia, China, Reunion Island and Haiti. Two sculptures representing France and Senegal are yet to be added.

You also get a clear view of the numerous caves on the face of the cliff. According to rumours, the runaway slaves used these caves as a hideout. The locality is present near the heritage trails, and it connects the other natural and heritage sites of significance through the circular contour path around the mountain. The path leads to the two escape points to Madagascar and the sea – Passe des Marrons and Passe de la Prairie.

If you are on your way to the Le Morne beaches, a quick stop at the International Slave Route Monument will not take more than ten to fifteen minutes. Even though there is no archaeological evidence of this tragedy, just knowing about the legendary stories related to this monument can be thought-provoking during that brief visit. International Slave Route Monument reminds you of the importance of freedom in our lives!