Island of Mozambique
Location: Island of Mozambique, Mozambique
Year of Inscription: 1991
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Island of Mozambique is a small island off the northern coast of Mozambique, located in the Indian Ocean. It was an important center of trade and culture for over a thousand years, and played a key role in the region's spice trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, the island is known for its unique blend of African, Arab, and European cultures, and is home to a number of well-preserved colonial buildings and monuments.
Prominent Features: The Island of Mozambique is characterized by its mix of African, Arab, and European architectural styles, and is home to a number of important landmarks and monuments. Some of the most notable sites include:
Fort São Sebastião: A 16th-century Portuguese fort, built to protect the island from attacks by rival powers. It now serves as a museum of the island's history.
The Palace of São Paulo: A former Portuguese palace, now converted into a museum of art and culture. The Church of the Misericordia: A 16th-century church, notable for its intricate tilework and baroque architecture.
The Old Hospital: A 16th-century building, now converted into a cultural center and art gallery.
History: The Island of Mozambique has a long and rich history, dating back over a thousand years. It was an important center of trade and commerce in the region, and played a key role in the spice trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. The island was colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, and remained under their control until Mozambique gained independence in 1975.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the island's historic landmarks and museums, learn about the island's unique blend of cultures, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Fun fact: The Island of Mozambique was once an important trading center and was known as a hub of Swahili culture.
Entry Fees: There is a small fee to enter the Fort São Sebastião museum, and additional fees for guided tours of the island's other landmarks and monuments.
How to Reach It: The Island of Mozambique can be reached by a short flight from Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, or by car or bus from other major cities in the region. Visitors can take a ferry or water taxi from the mainland to the island.
Public transport options to the Island of Mozambique are limited, but it can be reached by taking a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Nampula. Alternatively, there are private tour operators that offer transportation and guided tours to the island.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses on the island, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Some popular options include the Mozambique Island Lodge, the Hotel Escondidinho, and the Casa do Capitão.
Next Stop: Lake Malawi National Park
Year of Inscription: 1991
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Island of Mozambique is a small island off the northern coast of Mozambique, located in the Indian Ocean. It was an important center of trade and culture for over a thousand years, and played a key role in the region's spice trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, the island is known for its unique blend of African, Arab, and European cultures, and is home to a number of well-preserved colonial buildings and monuments.
Prominent Features: The Island of Mozambique is characterized by its mix of African, Arab, and European architectural styles, and is home to a number of important landmarks and monuments. Some of the most notable sites include:
Fort São Sebastião: A 16th-century Portuguese fort, built to protect the island from attacks by rival powers. It now serves as a museum of the island's history.
The Palace of São Paulo: A former Portuguese palace, now converted into a museum of art and culture. The Church of the Misericordia: A 16th-century church, notable for its intricate tilework and baroque architecture.
The Old Hospital: A 16th-century building, now converted into a cultural center and art gallery.
History: The Island of Mozambique has a long and rich history, dating back over a thousand years. It was an important center of trade and commerce in the region, and played a key role in the spice trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. The island was colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, and remained under their control until Mozambique gained independence in 1975.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the island's historic landmarks and museums, learn about the island's unique blend of cultures, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Fun fact: The Island of Mozambique was once an important trading center and was known as a hub of Swahili culture.
Entry Fees: There is a small fee to enter the Fort São Sebastião museum, and additional fees for guided tours of the island's other landmarks and monuments.
How to Reach It: The Island of Mozambique can be reached by a short flight from Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, or by car or bus from other major cities in the region. Visitors can take a ferry or water taxi from the mainland to the island.
Public transport options to the Island of Mozambique are limited, but it can be reached by taking a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Nampula. Alternatively, there are private tour operators that offer transportation and guided tours to the island.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses on the island, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Some popular options include the Mozambique Island Lodge, the Hotel Escondidinho, and the Casa do Capitão.
Next Stop: Lake Malawi National Park