Domaine de Maison Rouge, Colonial plantation and historic monument in Saint-Louis, Réunion Island, France.
Domaine de Maison Rouge is a colonial plantation estate and classified historical monument on Reunion Island, France. The property consists of several buildings arranged around a central courtyard, with a main residence overlooking production areas and former residential structures.
The estate was founded in 1724 initially focused on coffee production before transitioning to sugar cane cultivation in the 1830s. It remained operational until the early 20th century, reflecting the agricultural shifts that shaped the island's economy.
The site now houses the Indian Ocean Decorative Arts Museum, which displays objects and artifacts from the colonial agricultural period. The collection helps visitors understand the daily life and craftsmanship techniques that were part of this era.
The main building is currently undergoing renovation and is not accessible to visitors, so exploration focuses on the grounds and museum spaces housed in the former stables. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since visiting involves moving through different areas of the property.
The property preserves its original 18th-century spatial layout and remains the last coffee plantation building of its kind on the island. This retention of the original arrangement makes it a rare example of colonial-era agricultural production in its authentic configuration.
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