A shell museum in the centre of Port-Louis, it's hard to believe had we not seen it.  A stunning place that is worth a detour.  A visit is imperative.   

Sometimes, Port Louis holds many surprises.  At the bend of the Sir William Newton Street, located near the main market, you'll come out onto a stone entrance embellished with three big shells.  A quick glance at the sign indicates us that we are about to get in a museum that is entirely dedicated to...shells. 

Located on the first floor of the building, this strange museum houses almost all types of shells which are known up to now.  There are all types of sizes, colours and species.  Hence, a notice to all the enthusiasts and connoisseurs.  Because this shell museum also boasts a striking section dedicated to the "anomalies," where valuable intriguing objects are found.  Mind out, it can only be eyed and not touched.        

The Mikado Shell Museum was founded in 1972 by Vic Chakowa.  This scuba diving lover wanted to share his passion for the marine fauna in establishing the first-ever museum dedicated to shells.  The museum was later enriched with the acquisition of the private collection of Descrozilles, a collector since 1950.  Initially located in Tamarin, the shell museum has been moved to Port Louis.  Over the years, the spot has become an essential site like the main market, situated a few meters away.        

3000 shells from around the world 

A surprising initiative which has since then been very successful with a neophyte public.  "Neither do most of the visitors know about the shells nor have they ever tried the scuba diving.  So, it's a means for them to explore the treasures of our lagoons without having to wet their feet," underlines our guide.  Arriving on the first floor, several thousands of shells lie in front of the visitor.  Grouped by species, these empty shells which once have living creatures are found from the ground up to the ceiling within a subdued lighting.  We get closer and we are marveled in front of so many varieties that are gathered under one roof.  As a result, this atypical museum houses a collection of around 3000 shells across the world, and which are also endemic species.       

You'll learn, over the tour to differentiate the Gastropods - which represent the main class of living molluscs in the world - and the cephalopods - well developed marine molluscs.  And for those who fancy knowing the origin of the name Mikado (which incidentally is the owner of the museum), our guide has the answer: "Mikado is none other than the common name of Pleurotomania, an emblematic shell of a Japanese emperor at the 15^th century."  Elementary...            

Like in all the museums, the guided tour ends with a short tour at the souvenir shop.  Here, again the shell is available in all shapes: bedside lamp, paper weight and lampshade, among others.  An opportunity to go back with extraordinary souvenirs.