This article needs additional citations for verification. (June 2012) |
The State House | |
---|---|
Le Chateau de Réduit | |
General information | |
Architectural style | Old Palace Old Mansion |
Town or city | Réduit, Moka |
Country | Mauritius |
Construction started | July 1748 |
Technical details | |
Size | 97 ha (240 acres) |
Floor area | 5,100 m2 (55,000 sq ft) |
Design and construction | |
Architect(s) | Pierre Félix Barthelemy David |
The State House (French: Le Château de Réduit) is the official residence of the President of Mauritius. Originally Le Réduit, it was built as a fortress for defence against attack by Pierre Félix Barthelemy David in 1749. The mansion is in Réduit, Moka, near of the University of Mauritius and the end of the Plaines Wilhems District. It used to serve as the residence for former governors of Mauritius, but now it is the residence of the President. It is built on 97 hectares (240 acres) of land. The château has a garden where a multitude of flowers grow, as well as exotic and native trees. The château is open to the public two days a year, in October and March. The house has persisted through history; it was destroyed by a cyclone, rebuilt, and has been renovated since. It is also used by the military.[1]