The Fortress of São Paulo de Luanda: An Amazing Piece of History and Things to Do
The Fortress of São Paulo de Luanda, located in the capital of Angola, is a remarkable piece of history and a must-see for anyone visiting the country. It is the largest fortress in the country and one of the largest in all of Africa. Built in the 16th century, the fortress has been a witness to the history of Angola, from the arrival of the Portuguese to the country's independence.
The Fortress of São Paulo de Luanda was built by the Portuguese in 1576 to protect the city from attacks from the Dutch and the English. It was also used to guard the port of Luanda, which was an important trading hub at the time. The fortress was built on a hill overlooking the city and the bay of Luanda. It is surrounded by a moat and has four towers, two of which are octagonal and two are round. The walls of the fortress are made of stone and are about five meters thick.
The fortress was an important part of the Portuguese colonial rule in Angola. During the 19th century, it served as a prison for political prisoners and was a place of torture for those who opposed the Portuguese rule. After Angola gained independence in 1975, the fortress was turned into a museum. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Angola's history and culture.
There are several things to do at the Fortress of São Paulo de Luanda. Visitors can explore the fortress and its towers, which offer stunning views of the city and the bay. Inside the fortress, there is a museum where visitors can learn more about the history of Angola and the role of the fortress in the country's history. There is also a chapel located inside the fortress, which was built in the 16th century. Visitors can also walk around the walls of the fortress and take in the stunning views of the city.
The Fortress of São Paulo de Luanda is a must-see for anyone visiting Angola. It is a reminder of the country's long and turbulent history and a symbol of its resilience and strength. It is a great place to learn more about the history of the country and to take in the stunning views of the city and the bay.