Did you know that Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, is named after a French governor? Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, the French governor of Isle de France (modern-day Mauritius), bestowed his name upon this beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. Standing here today, at the heart of Victoria, Mahé’s capital, you can almost feel the weight of history. In 1742, Lazare Picault led an expedition that landed here and a French navy frigate called Le Cerf arrived at Port Victoria on November 1, 1756. They claimed the island for the King of France, placing a Stone of Possession on Mahé, the oldest monument in Seychelles, now on display in the National Museum. The British took over in 1812, but it wasn’t until 1976 that Seychelles finally gained independence. Mahé has witnessed the ebb and flow of power and the influence of various cultures. It still bears the marks of its colonial past with its classic architecture, yet has embraced its own unique identity and become a renowned tourist destination. The bustling port of Victoria, with its deep water harbour, is the heart of the island and the only sizeable town. A third of Mahé’s population lives here, making it a lively and vibrant spot, a blend of history and modern life. This island, rich in its history and culture, is a testament to the resilience of Seychelles, a nation that has embraced its past and continues to forge its own future.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to