Day 87 Tues 4/11/2023 Maputo, Mozambique 8-5:00

 Day 87 Tues 4/11/2023 Maputo, Mozambique 8-5:00

Can walk about in daytime.  Beware pickpockets.  Shops open 8:30- 1:00 and 3-5:00.

Pictures all the way to the end

MPM-006 Maputo Walking Tour 

Date: Apr 11, 2023 Duration: 2.50 Hrs 

Time: 09:15 AM, 12:30 PM 

OVERVIEW
Stroll the wide boulevards of Mozambique’s lovely capital, stopping at must-see attractions that include the ornate train station, bustling central market and an 18th-century fortress. Begin with a walk to the striking Beaux-Arts Central Railway Station, often mistakenly identified with Gustave Eiffel due to its alluring mint-green structure, iron latticework and large dome. You’ll visit the Maputo Central Market, a vibrant open-air setting filled with stands of exotic fruits and vegetables, tropical nuts, colorful spices and fresh fish. At the nearby Café Continental, relax over a demitasse of espresso and a signature Maputo delicacy called a pasteis de nata, an egg custard tart pastry often dusted with cinnamon that originated in Portugal. You’ll discover the 18th-century Maputo Fortress, one of the city’s most visited attractions, which provides insight into Mozambique’s colonization in its intriguing museum displaying armaments and art, along with the sealed, carved wooden coffin of Ngungunhane, the final ruler of the famed African kingdom of Gaza, now southern Mozambique. You’ll long remember your bewitching exploration of effervescent Maputo. 

HIGHLIGHTS
• Enjoy a leisurely walk to the eye-catching Beaux-Arts Central Railway Station.
• Experience a cacophony of sights and sounds at the lively Maputo central market.
• Sip a demitasse of espresso and savor a traditional custard tart at the Café Continental.
• Survey armaments and art illustrative of Maputo’s colonial days at the Maputo Fortress.

The train station was built between 1908 and 1916.  It is considered one of the most beautiful.  There are three domes, the copper clad central dome has a height of 51 m.  Marble pillars and wrought iron latticework enhance the appearance.  

                                                Train Station

The original Maputo Fortress was established by the Portuguese, but then abandoned.  In 1721, the Dutch built a fort on the bay and abandoned it due to conflicts with indigenous people and an unhealthy environment.  In 1781, the Portuguese forced out the Austrians and built a new fort.  The fort was a stop for whaling ships to get provisions and a town grew around the fort in 1850.  Mozambique became independent in 1975, but a civil war devastated Maputo’s economy.  The city’s economy recovered and stability returned as the port reestablished itself.  Strife continued until 1992.  Now, the economy is centered around the port and brewing, shipbuilding, fish canning, ironwork, cement and textile manufacturing.   

Fortaleza de Maputo was the primary fortress used to defend Maputo from pirates.  It was built in the 19th century.  The fort was also used by Dutch slave traders.  The red brick fort has a central courtyard and is one of the most revered monuments in the city.  

Ngungunhane, Gaza emperor, was imprisoned by Mouzinho de Albuquerque.  Mouzinho de Albuquerque was a military and political figure and Portuguese colonial administrator. 

Combat of Macontene was led by Mouzinho de Albuquerque. Maguiguane Cossa, was one of the last generals of Ngungunhane.  Cossa was defeated along with other warriors who resisted against the foreign colonial occupation.  

Mercado Municipal is one of the city's main markets.  Fresh fruits and fish and textiles and decor are all available at the Mercado Municipal.  

                                Women processing fish.

At the Maputo Fortress, see the sealed, carved wooden coffin of Ngungunhane, the final ruler of the famed African kingdom of Gaza, now southern Mozambique. 

                                                        Jumma Masjid Mosque

                                                        Pasteis de nata

At the nearby Café Continental, relax over a demitasse of espresso and a signature Maputo delicacy called a pasteis de nata, an egg custard tart pastry often dusted with cinnamon that originated in Portugal. I liked pastels de nana very much.  

HELPFUL HINTS
•Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. •Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. 

PLEASE NOTE
This tour includes approximately 2 1⁄2 hours of moderate walking. There will be some uneven surfaces and steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to guests who utilize a wheelchair or guests with mobility concerns.
Please be advised that Mozambique is a developing nation, and while visiting is a rewarding experience, it differs greatly from other urban destinations such as those found in South Africa. There is no formal guiding qualification required for Mozambique, and in order to support the local community, we use local escorts/guides. Many of these escorts/guides do have previous experience in guiding for visiting cruise ships. Please be aware that some of the international embassies and government buildings may be deemed military or state defense sites, and photography is not permitted. There can be serious consequences for ignoring these rules, so guests are advised to ask the tour guide before taking photos. The Central Market is undergoing renovation work. Guests who go ashore do so with the understanding that they will be mixing with members of the general public.