ADVENT MAURITIUS
this island was first settled in 1500 by dutch sailors, then taken over by france and in 1810 by england, before becoming independent in 1968. indian people are the largest part of the population. the island has high mountains and rich vegetation; its capital is port louis at the western coast. here is a preview, presenting pictures of landscapes, waterfalls, tea plantations and historic buildings. there are all sorts of churches, christian, muslim and especially colourful hindu temples. some old sailships are still cruising along the coast. the icon of mauritius is the dodo, a flightless bird which became extinct before 1700. it is a crucial feature of the island's coat of arms.
