【Africa In-Depth】 Witness Angola's Evolution: the Capital of the Former Kingdom of Kongo and Museum of the Armed Forces｜GreaterGo

【Africa In-Depth】Witness Angola's Evolution: the Capital of the Former Kingdom of Kongo and Museum of the Armed Forces

Beyond the Vast Grasslands, Africa has many different faces worth exploring. In Southern Africa, Angola reveals a nation's journey of transformation. Angola had been part of various nations throughout its history and later became a Portuguese colony. After 27 years of civil war, the country finally found peace and embarked on a path of development. Its rich yet intricate history nourishes a diverse range of ethnicities and boasts more than 42 ethnic languages. Let【GreaterGo】takes you on a journey through Angola's evolution. Explore the Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo, and the Museum of the Armed Forces in the capital city Luanda to gain insight into this nation's past and present.

Tourist Attractions in Angola 1. Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo

Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo is the only site in Angola listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo, one of the largest constituted states in southern Africa from the 14th to 19th centuries. The central area was the location of the royal residence, the court, and the royal burial grounds of that era.

In addition to witnessing the rise and fall of the dynasty, the architecture of Mbanza Kongo, the site of the former capital, also reflects the significant changes brought by European culture to African nations. In the 15th century, the Portuguese left their mark of intrusion by adding stone buildings constructed using European methods to Mbanza Kongo. This ancient land has experienced the splendour of kingdom,  the invasion and presence of Portuguese and Christian cultures, which have endured over time and contributed to its unique character. When you stand amidst these ruins, you may gain a different perspective on the significance of history.

Tourist Attractions in Angola 2. A Cache of Military History: Museum of the Armed Forces

In Angola's capital Luanda, there is a military museum that documents the nation's tumultuous history. The Museum of the Armed Forces was originally constructed as a fortress in 1576 under Portuguese directive, featuring sturdy outer walls lined with cannons to safeguard the bay.

Inside, you can admire an extensive collection of military artefacts and a range of colonial-era statues that were removed after Angola gained independence. These include aircraft, tanks, weapons used during the Angolan Civil War, as well as a statue of the Portuguese poet Camões, among others. Additionally, the museum offers a panoramic overlook of the entire city of Luanda, providing views of the beautiful Atlantic coastline.

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