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| Photo: LJ Padayachy Clock Tower, Victoria, Seychelles |
Victoria is the capital of the Seychelles. It is situated on the main island of this archipelago, Mahé. Victoria may be the world's tiniest capital, but do not let its size fool you. It is probably the most adorable little capital.
But then again, I admit that I am biased. I am proud to have been born and grown up in Victoria. But, definitely, Victoria is a charming hub of Seychellois culture. This town inspired a local artist and childhood friend to compose a popular local song, 'Victoria.'
It has vibrant markets, from colonial architecture to a laid-back island vibe. Victoria is so small that you can walk its streets in one or two hours. Join me as I explore this compact and idyllic guide to the best activities in Victoria!
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Fish stall at the Victoria Market. |
1. Get Lost in the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market
Start your day where the locals do: at the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. As a child, I remember that this market was where the adults would meet and share news. Next to the market were bakeries where we bought freshly baked bread and cakes in the morning. This Victorian-era market is the beating heart of Victoria.
As a visitor, sample some exotic tropical fruits you have never tasted. Want to try breadfruit or soursop?
Purchase some local handicrafts that are worth remembering as a souvenir.
Observe fishmongers fillet the day's catch with great expertise.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Victoria Market Seychelles |
Take in the pungent aroma of the regional spices. The spice stands include a variety of spices utilised in local kreol cuisine, such as nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Pro tip: Go early! The market is most alive at that time of day, and you get the first pick of the freshest produce. Be excited to converse with locals at the market. We primarily learn about local gossip, culture, and news from vendors.
2. Step Back in Time at the National Museum of History
History enthusiasts, rejoice! The National Museum of History offers insight into Seychelles' past in quite a fascinating manner, whereby you get to:
Admire artefacts of the pirate days on the islands.
Learn about the route that this nation took from colony to independent republic.
See traditional Creole clothes and musical instruments.
It's like taking a trip in a time machine, minus the risk of becoming your own grandparent by accident.
The National Museum tells the story from the time of the first settlers, the list and photos of the first groups of slaves to come to the Seychelles, and how it was shaped until the present-day republic. The National Museum is one of the country's important custodians of Seychellois history and culture. Culture is their identity; a country without culture is like a tree with no roots.
In the front of the National Museum of History is a statuette of Queen Victoria. It measures 30 cm and was unveiled in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. Seychelles was a British colony then.
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| Photo: LJ Padayayachy. The Clock Tower, Victoria, Seychelles. |
3. Selfie with the Victoria Clock Tower
Don't miss this. The Victoria Clock Tower is often referred to as the Seychelles' Big Ben.
This monument was built in 1903. It's a miniature version of the clock at Vauxhall Bridge, London.
Use it as your meeting point—everyone in Victoria does.
All Victoria tourists take photos of the Clock Tower, Lorloz, in Kreol. Actually, it is the most photographed landmark in Victoria. Bonus: It is probably the most accessible landmark to locate in town. Getting lost? Just look up!
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| Photo: LJ Padayayachy. The Clock Tower, Victoria, Seychelles |
4. Find Your Zen in the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
Are you looking for a break from the tropical heat? The Botanical Gardens in Mont Fleuri is your haven:
Stroll under the giant, towering palm trees and giant tortoises (yes, really!)
Visit the spice grove and try to identify cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper plants.
Marvel at the coco de mer plant: this is the world's largest, growing only in the Seychelles, specifically on the island of Praslin.
It's 5 acres of green tranquillity right in the heart of the town. It is next to the main hospital in the Seychelles, which is the Victoria Hospital. I once worked with the Ministry of Health at Victoria Hospital. I often went to the gardens for lunch and found this an excellent place for reflection and meditation. Who needs meditation apps when you've got this?
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Roman Catholic Cathedral, Victoria, Seychelles |
5. Admire the Architecture of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral:
The Roman Catholic Cathedral represents colonial architecture and is serene. This Roman Catholic cathedral provides spiritual and historical evidence of Victoria.
- Architectural era of the Colonial age: The cathedral, with its simple but elegant design, shows its history back to the colonial era, and it is an outstanding example of Seychelles's architectural heritage.
- Tranquil atmosphere: The cathedral represents Roman Catholics' main place of worship on the island. It can provide a quiet, serene environment for peaceful reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.
- Resting place of Seychellois' first bishop: The tomb is that of Félix Paul, the first Bishop of Seychelles, who died in 2001. The cathedral houses it, making it a historically and religiously significant site for visitors.
I was baptised, had my first holy communion, and had confirmation at this church until I decided that all that was not for me.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. St Paul, Anglican Cathedral, Victoria, Seychelles |
6. St. Paul's Anglican Church, a key landmark
This historic church features beautiful stained-glass windows and a peaceful garden; visitors are given a view of the island's Christian heritage.
St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the significant landmarks in Victoria that introduces serenity and a touch of history to its tourists. The structure indicates both its religious and architectural significance in the Seychelles:
- Colonial Architecture: The whitewashed exterior of this cathedral, along with its quintessential features, exemplifies the British influence that has shaped this island nation's religious history.
- Stained Glass Windows: The beautiful stained glass windows of the cathedral depict biblical scenes and softly filter coloured light into the room to form a peaceful space conducive to reflection.
- Tranquil Garden: The churchyard and garden area of the church serve as a peaceful retreat for anyone wanting to take some time out to reflect. The well-preserved vegetation and historical tombstones provide a wealth of information about the island's history.
This attraction to St. Paul's Cathedral would have formed a haven of peace amidst the hustle and bustle noise of the capital city, a blend of historical charm and spiritual contemplation.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple |
7. Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple:
Myriad colours and complex designs make Seychelles' only Hindu temple a unique sight and a memento of the country's diversified culture. Following are three major attractions and motives for visiting Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple in Victoria, Seychelles:
- Unique Dravidian Architecture: The views of the tower, or gopuram, with its intricately carved images of Hindu deities, provide something unique and spectacular in the South Indian architecture of this part of the country.
- Cultural Importance: It is the only Hindu temple in Seychelles and hence serves as a point of reference for the Hindu community on the island—a window to substantial cultural and religious life within the local Indian diaspora.
- Festive Ambiance: The temple gets so alive with all the colour and festivity of Diwali and Thaipusam, replete with traditional rituals and celebrations that provide an immersive experience for the visitors.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple |
This place is dear to me, too. A business associate of my grandfather was driving behind the construction of this temple. My grandfather was born in Tamil Nadu, India, and immigrated to Seychelles as a young merchant. This temple was built after my grandfather passed away. He would have prayed in the temple if he were alive, and I would have probably accompanied him—as I accompanied him at the Indian cinema.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Cinema, Victoria, Seychelles. |
Wrapping Up Your Victoria Adventure
Thus, be it the history enthusiast, the foodie, the nature lover, or the one seeking profound relaxation, Victoria has got you covered. And the best part? It's all within walking distance, seemingly tailor-made for the perfect day out.
Remember, in Victoria, the only time that matters is island time, so embrace the moment, immerse yourself, and allow this small paradise to captivate you. Trust me, you'll be Googling real estate prices by the time you leave, wondering if you could make the world's smallest capital your new home.
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Taxi Stand, Victoria, Seychelles |
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| Photo: LJ Padayachy. Post Office, Victoria, Seychelles |
