| Marianne Marianne is an imaginary character like Bharath Matha. It
was established by the French to mark the 100th anniversary of the French
revolution in 1789.
The history of Mahe begins here. Literally,
statue of Marianne is one of the proudest symbols of French revolution. The slogan
Liberty, Equality and Fraternity are enshrined on the statue, in French. It was from here
that the freedom struggle of Mahe gathered momentum. When the freedom struggle of Mahe was
at its peak, it was smashed out and thrown into the sea. Then as repentance they took it
out again from the sea and erected it on the pathar which is now a well maintained park in
the name of great poet Tagore.
On every July 14th the French
Nationals in Mahe assemble under this status and salute it with great pride. For the
people of Mahe, Marrianne is not just a symbol of French, but part and parcel of
their own life.
Government House
A fine example of french architecture built by
the French in 1855. The Head Quarters office of Mahe Administration is housed in it. A
walk along the mini forest at the backside of the Government House will take you to the
most beautiful viewpoint in Mahe. The Arabian Sea, the coastline with golden sand, the
greenish Mayyazhi Puzha, coconut grooves fully hiding the houses, the emerald Dharmadam
Island - all this and more can be seen from this point.
There is a tall flag mast and a Lighthouse, which
serves as guide for the ships, merchants and Navy which anchor of the coast. You may also
see the remnants of a fort constructed by the French. One could also enjoy the true
grandam of sunset.
Mahe Boat House, Manjakkal
Mahe boat house is located about one and half Kms
(1 1/2) away from the Government House on the Mahe river. Speedboats, Pedal boats and
Kayak boats are available. |