Attracting with its luxurious beaches, this is a wonderful place where you can relax from the bustle of the city. A quiet haven of absolute peace, it is a world-famous resort area that attracts tourists who dream of being away from civilization.
Tours to the Seychelles are a real journey to a museum of virgin nature, the beauty of which has been preserved in its original form. This is truly exotic, striking the imagination of Europeans!
Some facts about the archipelago
The island state is located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, on the Amirante and Seychelles Islands. Victoria is the capital of a magical archipelago of 115 coral and volcanic islands, but only 30 of them are inhabited.
The tourism industry is a lucrative branch of the economy of the former colony of the French and British. There is a huge selection of hotels that can satisfy the refined taste of any visiting foreigner. But the most comfortable and expensive places to stay (small but very roomy houses, from the windows of which amazing panoramas open) are located near the coast.
In addition, this is an offshore zone where thousands of foreign companies are registered, contributing to the economic development of the country. Everyone is concentrated here industrial enterprises archipelago, and the Seychelles residents themselves are actively engaged in growing tobacco, and also make furniture from local wood for export.
The democratic state respects the choice of religion of the islanders, and here you can see a Catholic church, which is adjacent to a Muslim mosque and a Hindu temple.
Island paradise
The Seychelles islands are divided into 4 groups:
- Amirantskie.
- Aldabra.
- Farquhar.
- Seychelles.
This is a quiet haven where heavenly pleasure and absolute peace reign. Islands with luxurious beaches and picturesque landscapes are adored by newlyweds coming on their honeymoon. Divers from different parts of the world, fans of surfing and yachting, as well as sea fishing flock here.
Denis is a coral island located on the very edge of an underwater plateau, beyond the boundaries of which the ocean depths begin. This is a beautiful corner, and its main highlight is the relict forest.
There is a famous diving center on Desroches. Both experienced divers and novice divers rush to a small area of land, for whom experienced instructors will help make their underwater trips memorable.
Coco de Mer is recognized as the most picturesque with exotic plants and palm trees. Tourists enjoy strolling through this fabulously beautiful place that looks like it came straight out of a glossy postcard.
Travel to Berd
The northernmost island is Bird, which you will have to get to by plane from Mahe (Seychelles) or by boat. Fans of interesting water travel always choose the second option. The secluded area is famous for its diversity of flora and fauna, but its main celebrity is the giant turtle, listed in the Guinness Book of Records.
Often in the evenings, all the lights are extinguished, and tourists sitting on the beach admire the colorful starry sky with delight. There are no paved roads or other amenities of civilization here, and therefore this is one of the most beautiful places where you can be alone with nature.
The largest island of a corner lost in the ocean
The largest of them is Mahe, on whose territory the capital of the republic and the international airport, built in 1971, are located. At the beginning of the 17th century, pirates mastered it, turning the land into their safe refuge, and the history of settlement begins in 1770, when 15 colonists from France, together with slaves, founded the village of Port Royal here.
Almost a hundred years later, the Seychelles came under the rule of the British, who named the only city in honor of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Only in 1976 did the period of colonial rule end and the state gained independence. And the administrative center turns into the seat of parliament and the president.
Tiny capital named after the Queen of Great Britain
Victoria in the Seychelles is one of the smallest capitals in the world and the only city in the state where approximately 26 thousand people live, most of whom are Creoles. In 1841, the British built a port on Mahe, naming it after their queen. Later, a tiny village formed around it, which turned into a small city.
Surrounded by cinnamon plantations, it is designed as a huge park, with tropical plants and dense trees being its main decoration. Victoria was built on the northeast coast of Mahe. The Seychelles owe their popularity to this city. The capital quickly transformed from a provincial and sparsely populated settlement into a vibrant city, keeping up with the times.
A paradise created for a pleasant holiday
The capital, located on the coast of the Indian Ocean and surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, is truly a paradise, created for relaxation. It cannot be called a metropolis, since Victoria does not have modern skyscrapers. The thing is that it is not allowed to erect buildings whose height would exceed the height of palm trees.
The main advantage of Victoria (Mahe, Seychelles) is its comfortable climate, thanks to which you can relax here at any time of the year. The sun constantly shines on the islands, and the flow of tourists, who know that the weather will not bring unpleasant surprises, does not dry out. However, it is worth considering that between December and February there are heavy rains, which are accompanied by sweltering heat. And from June to the end of August, severe drought begins. The most best time to visit the island - May and October. During these months, there is minimal rainfall and the air temperature is optimal, making your holiday enjoyable.
City and port
This is not only a unique city in the Seychelles, but also the only deep-sea port of the archipelago, capable of receiving several large airliners simultaneously. Smaller ships enter the inner harbor. An important transport hub of international importance. And for navy It plays a big role in the country: it is here that ships traveling from Africa to India are refueled.
Cultural and economic center of the country
Despite the fact that the capital is the cultural, political and economic center of Seychelles, it has retained a provincial atmosphere. However, one of the smallest administrative centers Our planet boasts a huge number of attractions, making the city and port of Victoria in the Seychelles an ideal place to explore.
In a tiny locality have your own public transport, but the best way to get to know it is on foot, strolling along two narrow streets lined with one-story houses painted in a light shade. The city area is decorated with exotic plants and green coconut palms. The colorful capital, which is a real advantage of Seychelles on the island of Mahe, is a city that allows you not only to have a great rest, but also to enrich yourself with new knowledge.
Miniature replica of Big Ben
This unusual attraction can be observed by tourists who stand at the intersection of two streets. The original silver tower, which appeared in 1903, stands here. The four-meter structure was erected in honor of Queen Victoria, thus perpetuating the memory of the time when the Seychelles were under British rule.
Of particular interest is the clock - a smaller copy of the famous Big Ben in London.
Museum and library
If you walk 200 meters, you can see an inconspicuous house. On the ground floor there is a museum whose exhibits tell the story of the rich history of the Seychelles. Victoria is also famous for its main attraction, which is a huge carved cube - the so-called Stone of Dominion, installed by Captain Nicholas Morphy, who declared the islands French territory in 1756. This is where it is stored oldest map state, painted over 500 years ago, the smallest statue of Queen Victoria, many objects recovered from sunken ships, colorful folk costumes and original musical instruments.
Tourists fearfully view exhibits dedicated to slavery and the magic of gris-gris of African origin, reminiscent of voodoo. After all, the Seychelles is the birthplace of secret cults, and witchcraft was brought by slave colonists from France. Catholic rituals mixed with pagan customs, and so black magic appeared, which defies any analysis. And on the second floor, in the library, part of the local archives is stored.
The most revered monuments
The three-story building, called the “House of the People,” is the center of both the political and cultural life of the town. And not far from it there is a monument to “Liberation”. This is the most revered monument, erected after the revolution that happened in the 70s of the last century. It was after her that the country gained independence. On the pedestal there is a proletarian who is furiously breaking the chains that bind him.
Another monument tells of the peaceful coexistence of Asians, Creoles and Europeans on the same land. The “Bicentennial Monument” appeared in 1978 in honor of the 200th anniversary of the development of the Seychelles. The three wings are interconnected, and each of them symbolizes the peaceful unity of peoples.
the main street
F. Rachel Street, named after the patriot who died 41 years ago, smoothly merges into the coastal highway, which leads to international airport, accepting flights from Moscow to Seychelles. From here you can fly to other islands, and all passenger terminals are located in one building.
The avenue is lined with numerous shops, banks and foreign embassies. Here you can also get acquainted with a unique modern attraction, whose craftsmen will teach you how to weave Seychelles hats and make original souvenirs from shells, turtle shells, and coconut fruits.
Botanical Garden
The city of Victoria is famous throughout the world for its luxurious green oasis, which houses a time capsule. It contains a message from local schoolchildren who wrote an appeal to the people of the future in 1994. In it, students ask to save the nature of Seychelles. The capsule will be opened in June 2044, and I would like to believe that by this time all the children’s wishes will come true.
The botanical park, founded at the beginning of the last century, contains not only fruit trees, flowering shrubs and numerous palm trees. Here you can look at hundred-year-old giant tortoises frozen in the rays of the gentle sun and watch them eat. The little one even sits on the shells of the hulking creatures, trying to ride them.
This is the best place to appreciate the richness of the Seychelles flora without leaving the capital
Curious museum
Everyone who has visited the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, speaks with admiration of the Natural History Museum, at the entrance to which visitors are greeted by a life-size sculpture of a Nile crocodile. Among the exhibits are the skulls of huge alligators, stuffed sea turtles, and rich collections of moths and butterflies.
Sir S. Clarke Market
When in the capital of Seychelles, you should definitely visit the indoor market, where people flock local residents and tourists. This is the real heart of the city, named after the man who served as governor during World War II. The Chinese-style building houses vendors every day offering fresh fruits and vegetables, spices and herbs, freshly caught fish, as well as a variety of souvenirs and beachwear.
The busiest day is Saturday, as sellers offer great discounts on all products during the weekend.
Religious landmark
In 1874, construction of the city cathedral was completed, the appearance of which features elements of the French colonial style. A clock is built into the roof of the beautiful building with powerful columns and majestic arches, striking twice an hour. On Sundays, Victoria's religious monument comes alive as hundreds of Catholics flock to mass.
Holidays in Victoria in the Seychelles: reviews
Judging by the impressions of travelers, this is one of the most amazing places on our planet, which is imbued with romance and tranquility. Residents of the city lead a measured life, and this tranquility has a beneficial effect on visitors. Tourists admit that the capital of Seychelles charmed them.
Vacationers cannot even find words to describe the incredible beauty of this amazing corner and say that it is better to see the picturesque landscapes with your own eyes. This green island, lost in the Indian Ocean, takes you straight to the gates of heaven on earth.
True, holidays on the islands are available only to wealthy travelers, and prices do not depend on the season. The road to the mysterious world is not close, the flight from Moscow to the Seychelles takes about 10 hours, and it is better not to take children on the trip. Direct flight is the most easy way find yourself in a fairy tale.
Lovers of secluded relaxation and lovers rent bungalows on small coral islands. This accommodation option allows you to enjoy the sea and tropical nature. Budget hotels with a minimum of amenities are located far from the beach, while luxury villas are located on the first coastline. Tours to the Seychelles can be purchased at any time, since the beach season lasts all year round.
Victoria is the capital of the legendary Seychelles, dating back to the 18th century. Thanks to the 15 French colonists who became the fathers of the first settlement of Port Royal, the city today is one of the main tourist centers East Africa. The capital of Seychelles is immersed in pristine nature tropics, which the Creole nation, the owner of such a great miracle, proudly demonstrates to tourists.
General information
Victoria is the capital and the most Big City country, which received its name in honor of the Queen of England - Victoria. The city is located on the northeastern coast of the most famous island of the Seychelles - Mahe. The population of the capital is 25 thousand people. In the west of Victoria there is the picturesque Intendanse Bay, also on the territory: the famous Three Brothers Mountain, 699 meters high, and the hills of Niols, Creve Coeur and Signal.
Victoria is the port of the same name and the main fuel supply base for all ships on the route from Africa to India.
Victoria is part of the metropolitan area - Greater Victoria / Central Mahé in the Seychelles, and is located in the English River district.
Weather in Victoria
Victoria is located in the subequatorial maritime climate zone. Therefore, the weather here is usually sunny with an average annual temperature of +27 °C. The rainy season, which falls from December to January, is characterized by infrequent precipitation, which does not cause any particular inconvenience to vacationers.
For beach holiday The most suitable periods are from April to June and from September to November. During this time, the weather is most pleasant, warm, with light winds and calm oceans.
Transport Victoria
There are direct flights to Seychelles International Airport from Frankfurt (Condor), London (British Airways), Amsterdam (Martinair), also from Milan, Rome, Bangkok, Johannesburg.
In addition to the International Airport, Victoria is famous for the country's largest port. Ferries, high-speed catamarans and river buses constantly run between the islands; they can be used to get to Praslin and La Digue. To get to other islands you will have to travel by boat.
You can also explore local attractions from a private plane or helicopter. The domestic airline Air Seychelles operates regular flights throughout the Seychelles.
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Victoria, and the largest bus station in the Seychelles is located here. You can also rent a car or bicycle and travel around the island.
Sights of Victoria
Popular areas of Victoria
- Albert is the main avenue of the city, on which there is the only SMB supermarket, Chinese and Indian shops;
- Francis Rachel is the business district of the capital, in which banks, airline representative offices, office buildings, a stock exchange, etc. are located;
- Revolution Avenue is central, with an English church and many small shops located on it.
Natural attractions of Victoria
- Botanical Garden Mont Fleuri Botanical gardens is the main attraction that clearly demonstrates the unique nature of the Seychelles. The entrance to this truly heavenly place is located on Mont Fleuri Avenue, near the intersection of the main streets Francis Rachel and 5th June Ave. The garden contains all types of palm trees characteristic of this natural area. Of particular interest is, of course, the coco de mer palm, the fruits of which are considered a miracle of nature. The fruits take 7 years to ripen and when ready reach a weight of 40 kg. In time immemorial, the fruits of this palm washed ashore from the island of Praslin, and since then the name “sea coconut” has been assigned to this nut. Of no less interest are the bright red fruits of achiote (bixa orellana), from which the natural dye “annatto” is extracted for rice, margarine, butter, smoked fish, cheese and even lipstick.
- The enclosure with giant turtles always attracts a large number of not only tourists, but also local residents . The famous Seychelles orchids and giant alocasia are given a large area in the garden;
- Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden is a fabulous garden and the main attraction not only of Victoria, but also of the Seychelles. Here you can spend the whole day admiring the beauty of pristine nature from viewing terraces specially designed for such purposes;
- Valais de Mai is a natural attraction that has another name - “Valley of May”. Here you can meet a rare bird - the black parrot and other representatives of tropical flora and fauna.
Historical and cultural attractions of Victoria
- The Victoria National Museum of History and the Victoria Natural History Museum are attractions that introduce visitors to all the details of the formation of Creole culture;
- The House of Peoples is the center of cultural and political life capital, there is a conference hall and a large library. Nearby is another attraction - the Liberation monument;
- Monument "Free Man" - symbolizes the importance historical event- revolution of 1977;
- “Bicentennial Monument” is a symbol of the beginning of active development of the Seychelles;
- Seychelles Club - an architectural landmark, the former residence of the Governor of the Seychelles;
- The Clock Tower in the capital of Seychelles is a copy of Little Ben in London, it was installed in honor of Queen Victoria;
- Seychelles Bank - considered one of the attractions of Victoria for its unique architecture: the outer part of the building is made of glass that reflects the sun's rays;
- National Library of Seychelles - has a huge collection of publications by local and foreign authors;
- The Creole Institute is an architectural monument protected by the Seychelles government. The building is closed to tourists and local residents.
Temples of Victoria
Victoria is home to religious centers of different cultures. Here you can also find a Hindu temple, Orthodox Church and a Muslim mosque.
The Cathedral is located on Maradan Street, the church is crowned with a figurine of Jesus, going far into the clouds;
The Hindu temple is located on Quincy Street - the temple is a real architectural masterpiece, it is very ancient and has already been restored several times.
Wellness centers in Victoria
Each Victoria hotel has health centers, including beauty parlors, fitness centers, massage parlors, etc.
Cerf Island Private Mini Spa - health complex, ideal for devotees healthy image life, namely SPA procedures. The list of services provided includes: cosmetic procedures and various types of massage.
Victoria beaches
Beach holidays are one of the most basic specializations of tourism in the Seychelles. The metropolitan area also has all the conditions for this type of recreation. The island on which the capital is located is indented by numerous bays, each of which has its own beaches.
- Bu Valion Bay is famous for its magnificent beach with coral sand. The most complete set of beach infrastructure elements makes the bay one of the most visited by lovers of water activities and beach holidays. All types of water sports are available here: windsurfing, snorkeling, water skiing, etc.;
- Anse-à-la-Mouche, Anse Forbans - beaches that are ideal for lovers of a secluded holiday, fine, pleasant sand, pure water, few people. In the Seychelles, most of the outlying beaches are quite deserted;
- Anse Intendance is a beach ideal for lovers of water sports and is very popular among surfing enthusiasts;
- Petite Anse is one of the smallest and most popular beaches with ideal conditions for relaxation and modern beach equipment.
Victoria Holidays
- The Creole Festival is one of the most significant events in the cultural life of the islands. Every October, the diversity of Creole culture is presented in all its splendor at this festival. The festival starts in Victoria, where it brings together Creole artists, musicians and singers from all over the world;
- Deepavali is one of the religious holidays, which means the arrival of joy and happiness, dedicated to the goddess of prosperity, abundance and success - Lakshmi;
- Ovan Bazaar and Victoria Bazaar are also traditional permanent festivals, where everyone can take part in mass entertainment, accompanied by fiery Creole rhythms;
- Healing Marathon - takes place in Beau Vallon Bay in February and brings together adherents of a healthy lifestyle;
- FetAfrik is a festival of African culture, held annually in May.
Victoria Restaurants
Victoria is known to tourists not only for its abundance of attractions, but also for its excellent cuisine. The main menu items of any restaurant are rice and seafood. The most popular dish made from these ingredients is pvason ek diri.
- The Pirates Arms restaurant is the most famous restaurant not only in the capital, but on the entire island of Mahe. It is located in the city center on Independence Avenue. The restaurant's menu features traditional Creole dishes.
- Restaurant Le Rendez-Vous - located near the Clock Tower, in the city center. It features an ecological style of interior decoration. The restaurant's signature dish is mixed grill. They also serve a great milkshake.
- Restaurant La Plaine St. Andre. - is located next to a local distillery and offers visitors a varied wine list. The menu includes an abundance of fish dishes; beef and tuna dishes are also popular. The restaurant has an excellent entertainment program.
- Restaurant Kaz Zanana - suitable for family vacation with kids. Famous for its abundance of fresh baked goods and soft drinks. The signature dish is banana pie.
- Restaurant Marias Rock Cafe - ideal for relaxation big company. The restaurant offers an interesting entertainment program. There is an art gallery nearby, where you can stroll after your meal.
Nightlife in Victoria
Each hotel offers its visitors entertainment program, but there are also popular places in the capital:
- "Lovnat" is the best night club in the country, has one hall per fresh air, the second is indoors, but with air conditioning; VIP-class boxes; music - popular hits; the audience is mainly foreign;
- "Barel" - a bar popular with the local population, is suitable for those who want to experience real Creole hot evenings;
- Three casinos: at the Plantation Club and Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay hotels and a new casino in the center of the capital at the Barbarons Beach hotel.
The capital offers opportunities for road, air and sea excursions, not only around the island of Mahe, but also around the main tourist destinations of Seychelles.
Shopping in Victoria
Victoria has a huge number shopping centers, souvenir shops and street tents.
The most popular souvenirs to buy in Victoria are the national hat, sailboat models, sea shells, coconut soap and coconut liqueur.
- Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clark Market sells traditional handicrafts, fashionable clothes and all kinds of gourmet foods;
- Victoria Street has numerous street stalls where you can buy all the traditional souvenirs.
- The Craft Village offers exclusive souvenirs made from wood, coconut leaves, straw, ceramics and bamboo.
Victoria is a real African miracle, capable of satisfying all the needs of tourists craving aesthetic beauty, pleasant pleasures and exotic experiences.
True heaven on earth really does exist. Seychelles, attractive with its luxurious beaches, is a wonderful place where you can relax from the bustle of the city. A quiet haven of absolute peace, it is a world-famous resort area that attracts tourists who dream of being away from civilization.
Tours to the Seychelles are a real journey to a museum of virgin nature, the beauty of which has been preserved in its original form. This is truly exotic, striking the imagination of Europeans!
Some facts about the archipelago
The island state is located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, on the Amirante and Seychelles Islands. Victoria is the capital of a magical archipelago of 115 coral and volcanic islands, but only 30 of them are inhabited.
The tourism industry is a lucrative branch of the economy of the former colony of the French and British. There is a huge selection of hotels that can satisfy the refined taste of any visiting foreigner. But the most comfortable and expensive places to stay (small but very roomy houses, from the windows of which amazing panoramas open) are located near the coast.
In addition, this is an offshore zone where thousands of foreign companies are registered, contributing to the economic development of the country. All the industrial enterprises of the archipelago are concentrated here, and the Seychelles residents themselves are actively engaged in growing tobacco, and also make furniture from local wood for export.
The democratic state respects the choice of religion of the islanders, and here you can see a Catholic church, which is adjacent to a Muslim mosque and a Hindu temple.
Island paradise
The Seychelles islands are divided into 4 groups:
- Amirantskie.
- Aldabra.
- Farquhar.
- Seychelles.
This is a quiet haven where heavenly pleasure and absolute peace reign. Islands with luxurious beaches and picturesque landscapes are adored by newlyweds coming on their honeymoon. Divers from different parts of the world, fans of surfing and yachting, as well as sea fishing flock here.
Denis is a coral island located on the very edge of an underwater plateau, beyond the boundaries of which the ocean depths begin. This is a beautiful corner, and its main highlight is the relict forest.
There is a famous diving center on Desroches. Both experienced divers and novice divers rush to a small area of land, for whom experienced instructors will help make their underwater trips memorable.
The most picturesque island is Praslin with exotic plants and Coco de Mer palm trees. Tourists enjoy strolling through this fabulously beautiful place that looks like it came straight out of a glossy postcard.
Travel to Berd
The northernmost island is Bird, which you will have to get to by plane from Mahe (Seychelles) or by boat. Fans of interesting water travel always choose the second option. The secluded area is famous for its diversity of flora and fauna, but its main celebrity is the giant turtle, listed in the Guinness Book of Records.
Often in the evenings, all the lights are extinguished, and tourists sitting on the beach admire the colorful starry sky with delight. There are no paved roads or other amenities of civilization here, and therefore this is one of the most beautiful places where you can be alone with nature.
The largest island of a corner lost in the ocean
The largest of the Seychelles islands is Mahe, on whose territory the capital of the republic and the international airport, built in 1971, are located. At the beginning of the 17th century, pirates mastered it, turning the land into their safe refuge, and the history of settlement begins in 1770, when 15 colonists from France, together with slaves, founded the village of Port Royal here.
Almost a hundred years later, the Seychelles came under the rule of the British, who named the only city in honor of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Only in 1976 did the period of colonial rule end and the state gained independence. And the administrative center turns into the seat of parliament and the president.
Tiny capital named after the Queen of Great Britain
Victoria in the Seychelles is one of the smallest capitals in the world and the only city in the state where approximately 26 thousand people live, most of whom are Creoles. In 1841, the British built a port on Mahe, naming it after their queen. Later, a tiny village formed around it, which turned into a small city.
Surrounded by cinnamon plantations, it is designed as a huge park, with tropical plants and dense trees being its main decoration. Victoria was built on the northeast coast of Mahe. The Seychelles owe their popularity to this city. The capital quickly transformed from a provincial and sparsely populated settlement into a vibrant city, keeping up with the times.
A paradise created for a pleasant holiday
The capital, located on the coast of the Indian Ocean and surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, is truly a paradise created for relaxation. It cannot be called a metropolis, since Victoria does not have modern skyscrapers. The thing is that it is not allowed to erect buildings whose height would exceed the height of palm trees.
The main advantage of Victoria (Mahe, Seychelles) is its comfortable climate, thanks to which you can relax here at any time of the year. The sun constantly shines on the islands, and the flow of tourists, who know that the weather will not bring unpleasant surprises, does not dry out. However, it is worth considering that between December and February there are heavy rains, which are accompanied by sweltering heat. And from June to the end of August, severe drought begins. The best time to visit the island is May and October. During these months, there is minimal rainfall and the air temperature is optimal, making your holiday enjoyable.
City and port
This is not only a unique city in the Seychelles, but also the only deep-water port of the archipelago, capable of receiving several large liners at the same time. Smaller ships enter the inner harbor. An important transport hub of international importance. And it plays a big role for the country’s navy: it is here that ships traveling from Africa to India are refueled.
Cultural and economic center of the country
Despite the fact that the capital is the cultural, political and economic center of Seychelles, it has retained a provincial atmosphere. However, one of the smallest administrative centers on our planet boasts a huge number of attractions, making the city and port of Victoria in the Seychelles an ideal option for exploration.
The tiny village has its own public transport, but the best way to get to know it is on foot, strolling along two narrow streets lined with one-story houses painted in a light shade. The city area is decorated with exotic plants and green coconut palms. The colorful capital, which is a real advantage of Seychelles on the island of Mahe, is a city that allows you not only to have a great rest, but also to enrich yourself with new knowledge.
Miniature replica of Big Ben
This unusual attraction can be observed by tourists who stand at the intersection of two streets. The original silver tower, which appeared in 1903, stands here. The four-meter structure was erected in honor of Queen Victoria, thus perpetuating the memory of the time when the Seychelles were under British rule.
Of particular interest is the clock - a smaller copy of the famous Big Ben in London.
Museum and library
If you walk 200 meters, you can see an inconspicuous house. On the ground floor there is a museum whose exhibits tell the story of the rich history of the Seychelles. Victoria is also famous for its main attraction, which is a huge carved cube - the so-called Stone of Dominion, erected by Captain Nicholas Morphy, who declared the islands French territory in 1756. The oldest map of the state, drawn more than 500 years ago, the smallest statue of Queen Victoria, many objects recovered from sunken ships, colorful folk costumes and original musical instruments are also kept here.
Tourists fearfully view exhibits dedicated to slavery and the magic of gris-gris of African origin, reminiscent of voodoo. After all, the Seychelles is the birthplace of secret cults, and witchcraft was brought by slave colonists from France. Catholic rituals mixed with pagan customs, and so black magic appeared, which defies any analysis. And on the second floor, in the library, part of the local archives is stored.
The most revered monuments
The three-story building, called the “House of the People,” is the center of both the political and cultural life of the town. And not far from it there is a monument to “Liberation”. This is the most revered monument, erected after the revolution that happened in the 70s of the last century. It was after her that the country gained independence. On the pedestal there is a proletarian who is furiously breaking the chains that bind him.
Another monument tells of the peaceful coexistence of Asians, Creoles and Europeans on the same land. The “Bicentennial Monument” appeared in 1978 in honor of the 200th anniversary of the development of the Seychelles. The three wings are interconnected, and each of them symbolizes the peaceful unity of peoples.
the main street
F. Rachel Street, named after the patriot who died 41 years ago, smoothly merges into the coastal highway, which leads to the international airport accepting flights from Moscow to the Seychelles. From here you can fly to other islands, and all passenger terminals are located in one building.
The avenue is lined with numerous travel agencies, shops, banks and embassies of other countries. Here you can also get acquainted with a unique modern attraction, whose craftsmen will teach you how to weave Seychelles hats and make original souvenirs from shells, turtle shells, and coconut fruits.
Botanical Garden
The city of Victoria is famous throughout the world for its luxurious green oasis, which houses a time capsule. It contains a message from local schoolchildren who wrote an appeal to the people of the future in 1994. In it, students ask to save the nature of Seychelles. The capsule will be opened in June 2044, and I would like to believe that by this time all the children’s wishes will come true.
The botanical park, founded at the beginning of the last century, is not only fruit trees, flowering shrubs and numerous palm trees. Here you can look at hundred-year-old giant tortoises frozen in the rays of the gentle sun and watch them eat. The little one even sits on the shells of the hulking creatures, trying to ride them.
This is the best place to appreciate the richness of the Seychelles flora without leaving the capital
Curious museum
Everyone who has visited the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, speaks with admiration of the Natural History Museum, at the entrance to which visitors are greeted by a life-size sculpture of a Nile crocodile. Among the exhibits are the skulls of huge alligators, stuffed sea turtles, and rich collections of moths and butterflies.
Sir S. Clarke Market
When in the capital of Seychelles, you should definitely visit the indoor market, where locals and tourists flock. This is the real heart of the city, named after the man who served as governor during World War II. The Chinese-style building houses vendors every day offering fresh fruits and vegetables, spices and herbs, freshly caught fish, as well as a variety of souvenirs and beachwear.
The busiest day is Saturday, as sellers offer great discounts on all products during the weekend.
Religious landmark
In 1874, construction of the city cathedral was completed, the appearance of which features elements of the French colonial style. A clock is built into the roof of the beautiful building with powerful columns and majestic arches, striking twice an hour. On Sundays, Victoria's religious monument comes alive as hundreds of Catholics flock to mass.
Holidays in Victoria in the Seychelles: reviews
Judging by the impressions of travelers, this is one of the most amazing places on our planet, which is imbued with romance and tranquility. Residents of the city lead a measured life, and this tranquility has a beneficial effect on visitors. Tourists admit that the capital of Seychelles charmed them.
Vacationers cannot even find words to describe the incredible beauty of this amazing corner and say that it is better to see the picturesque landscapes with your own eyes. This green island, lost in the Indian Ocean, takes you straight to the gates of heaven on earth.
True, holidays on the islands are available only to wealthy travelers, and prices do not depend on the season. The road to the mysterious world is not close, the flight from Moscow to the Seychelles takes about 10 hours, and it is better not to take children on the trip. A direct flight is the easiest way to find yourself in a fairy tale.
Lovers of secluded relaxation and lovers rent bungalows on small coral islands. This accommodation option allows you to enjoy the sea and tropical nature. Budget hotels with a minimum of amenities are located far from the beach, while luxury villas are located on the first coastline. Tours to the Seychelles can be purchased at any time, since the beach season lasts all year round.
