Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela: A Historical Landmark in Angola
The Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela, also known as the Fortaleza de São Salvador de Benguela or simply the Benguela Fortress, is a historical landmark located in the coastal city of Benguela in Angola. The fortress is a reminder of the Portuguese colonial period in Angola, and is a popular tourist attraction for those interested in the history of the region.
History of the Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela
The Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela was built in 1617 by the Portuguese colonialists who had just arrived in Angola. The fortress was built to protect the Portuguese from the native tribes in the area, and was used to defend the city from attacks. The fortress was also used to store weapons and ammunition, and was a strategic military outpost for the Portuguese.
The fortress was initially made up of two forts, one on the beach and one on the hill. The fort on the beach, known as Forte de São Sebastião, was destroyed by the Dutch in 1641. The fort on the hill, known as Forte de São Salvador, was rebuilt in 1642 and is still standing today.
The fortress was used by the Portuguese until the end of the colonial period in 1975. After Angola gained independence, the fortress was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In 1998, the fortress was declared a national monument and restoration work began. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors.
Amazing Facts About the Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela
• The Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela is the oldest surviving Portuguese fort in Angola.
• The fortress is made up of two forts: Forte de São Sebastião and Forte de São Salvador.
• The fortress was used by the Portuguese to defend the city from attacks by the native tribes in the area.
• The fortress was declared a national monument in 1998 and restoration work began soon after.
• The fortress is now a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors.
Things to Do at the Fortress of São Salvador de Benguela
• Explore the Fortress: Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its history. There are several rooms and chambers to explore, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the fortress.
• Climb to the Top: Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy stunning views of the city and the ocean.
• Take a Guided Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the fortress and learn about its history and the history of the region.
• Visit the Museum: The fortress has a museum dedicated to the history of the fortress and the region. The museum has a variety of artifacts and displays that tell the story of the fortress and the region.
• Take Photos: Visitors can take photos of the fortress and the surrounding area.
• Enjoy the Views: Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the city and the ocean from the top of the fortress.