While in Noumea, head to the Nouville peninsula where a number of historical sites are located. Visit the Théâtre de l’île, built by convicts of the penal colony or stop by the 1881, a historical building that now hosts a restaurant. When you book your flight to Noumea, you don’t miss other architectural landmarks erected during the colonial era: the hospital, the Protestant Church, the cathedral, the Place des Cocotiers Square and the music gazebo. Colonial houses can be found all over town. Their architecture, both quaint and vibrant, will undoubtedly take you back in time. Chateau Hagen and Maison Higginson are two impressive historical buildings that often host exhibitions. If you visit Nouméa’s museum, you will discover a typical colonial building that once was the city’s first bank.
During local heritage days (Mois du Patrimoine) in September, learn about the different cultural influences that have shaped New Caledonia’s identity. Enjoy the traditional chants, dances and gastronomy that celebrate the island’s different ethnicities.