Ilha de Moçambique
Mozambique Island is a World heritage site as selected by UNESCO. It's a small island with 3 km in length and 500 metres in width. This island has a history dating from several centuries.
The oldest constructions date back to the time of the Arab traders that came for ivory and slaves. Next, it was colonized by the Portuguese who constructed remarkable churches and fortresses. Nowadays, the Africans have reclaimed their island and it's a destination very popular with visitors.
Fortress-Church of Santo António
This fortress-church built by the Portuguese dates from at least 1754.
Palace of the governor
This palace, built in 1619, was used as a college by the Jesuits until 1759. In 1761, the building became the place of the governor until 1898. It is now a museum.
Inside the palace is very nice with its old furniture... However, photos are not allowed.
The old hospital
Old hospital built in the years 1700 by the Portuguese.
Island-fortress of São Lourenço
Portuguese fortress dating from the years 1600.
Fortress of São Sebastião
This fortress is probably the most impressive of all Africa. With its twenty metres high walls, it was constructed between 1558 and 1620. The stones used for its construction have been shipped from Lisbon, in Portugal.
Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Baluarte
The chapel of Our Lady of the Ramparts was built in 1522.
A sad truth
As you may have noticed, the buildings are falling apart. It seems that people and the government are not making any maintenance to preserve this patrimonial site. Apart from a few buildings, everything seems to be abandoned. In which state will all those constructions be in a few decades?
In addition to an obvious lack of maintenance, people get rid of their trash by throwing them directly on the beach. Moreover, most of them go to the toilet directly on the beach at low tides or in the rocks on the shore. Be careful where you walk...
On the continent facing the island
There is no camping on the island. Thus, I camped directly in front of the island near the bridge. The view was awesome.
