Mille Fleurs, Port of Spain

A building of historical significance, the castle-house of Mille Fleurs, at 23 Maraval Road, was built in 1904 as a present from Dr Enrique Prada (1867–1944) to his wife, for whom it is named.

Dr Prada, known to have had keen interest in architecture, actively participated in the design and oversaw the construction together with George Brown of the Trinidad Trading Company. The result was the house of French provincial style with some elaborate carvings and other decorations.

The Pradas occupied the residence until 1923, when they sold it to Joseph Salvatori. The property remained in the Salvatori family until Joseph's daughter, Mrs Pierre Lelong, sold it to George Malouk, in 1973. The latter, in his turn, sold it to the government of Trinidad and Tobago in June 1979.

Throughout its history, the house had served several purposes and remained under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture until June 2000, when it was reassigned to the Ministry of Environment. However, after a period of time when it was not occupied or maintained, the property deteriorated significantly. Restored since, in August 2020 it was handed over to the National Trust.

The National Trust states, "Although Mille Fleurs is less ostentatious than some of its neighbours, the quality of finish and detailing is perhaps of a far higher quality." These include the intricately carved balusters and the marble treads and risers to both the main and secondary staircases, the elaborate cast iron columns and brackets.