Located in the city of Bolama, Guinea-Bissau, the Bolama Museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of this West African country. Founded in 1974, the museum was created to preserve and showcase the country’s cultural heritage and consists of four main sections: ethnography, archaeology, history, and natural history. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Bolama Museum.
1. Explore the Ethnography Section
The ethnography section of the museum is dedicated to the culture and customs of the people of Guinea-Bissau. Here, visitors can learn more about the country’s various ethnic groups, including the Fula, Balanta, and Bijagós peoples. The section also features a variety of traditional artifacts, such as masks, musical instruments, and jewelry.
2. Check Out the Archaeology Section
The Bolama Museum’s archaeology section is home to a wide range of artifacts from the area’s ancient past. Here, visitors can view pottery, tools, and other objects from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. The section also features a replica of an ancient burial site, which provides insight into the burial practices of the region’s early inhabitants.
3. Learn About the History of Guinea-Bissau
The history section of the museum is dedicated to the country’s more recent past. Here, visitors can learn about the country’s independence struggle, the role of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), and the country’s post-independence development. The section also features a variety of artifacts, including photographs, documents, and maps.
4. Visit the Natural History Section
The natural history section of the museum is dedicated to the country’s unique flora and fauna. Here, visitors can learn about the various species of plants and animals that call Guinea-Bissau home. The section also features a variety of specimens, such as shells, rocks, and fossils.
5. Check Out the Permanent Exhibitions
In addition to the four main sections of the museum, the Bolama Museum also features a number of permanent exhibitions. These include a gallery of traditional masks, a display of traditional musical instruments, and a collection of photographs from the country’s independence struggle.
6. Attend a Lecture or Workshop
The Bolama Museum regularly hosts lectures and workshops on a variety of topics related to the country’s culture and history. These events are open to the public and often feature guest speakers from the local community.
7. Take a Tour of the Museum
The museum offers guided tours of the various sections and exhibitions. These tours are available in both English and Portuguese and provide an in-depth look at the museum’s collections and the history of the region.
8. Visit the Gift Shop
The museum’s gift shop is the perfect place to find souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, postcards, jewelry, and traditional crafts.
9. Participate in a Research Project
The museum also offers a number of research projects for visitors who are interested in learning more about the country’s culture and history. These projects often involve working with local communities or conducting fieldwork in the region.
10. Enjoy the Surrounding Area
The Bolama Museum is located in the city of Bolama, which is a great place to explore. The city is home to a variety of historic sites, such as the former Portuguese fort and the ruins of the old city. It is also home to a number of beautiful beaches, making it a great place for a day trip.
The Bolama Museum is a great place to explore the culture and history of Guinea-Bissau. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the country’s past or just want to pick up a souvenir, the museum has something for everyone. So, make sure to add it to your list of must-visit destinations in this West African nation.