Island of Mozambique

The Island of Mozambique is a significant historical and geographic location. It is situated in the Nampula Province of Mozambique. The island lies between the Mozambique Channel and Mossuril Bay. This site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the fastest-growing destinations for tourists in the country. The island is relatively small in size. It measures about 3 km in length. Its width varies between 200 and 500 metres.

The island's geography is divided into distinct areas. A 3 km bridge connects the island to the mainland. Most of the historical buildings are located at the northern end. This area is often called Stone Town. In contrast, the southern end is known as Makuti Town. The majority of the 14,000 permanent residents live in reed houses in Makuti Town. The island is entirely urbanised today. It contains several mosques and a Hindu temple.

The history of the island began long before European arrival. Pottery found at Fort São Sebastião suggests the town existed by the fourteenth century. Tradition says the original Swahili population arrived from Kilwa. By the fifteenth century, the island's rulers had links to Angoche and Quelimane. In 1514, Duarte Barbosa observed a Muslim population here. These residents spoke the same Swahili dialect as those in Angoche.

The name of the island has a specific origin. It is derived from Ali Musa Mbiki, also known as Mussa Bin Bique. He was a sultan during the time of Vasco da Gama. The name of the modern country, Mozambique, comes from this island's name. The Portuguese established a naval base and port in 1507. They built the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte in 1522. This is the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere.

During the sixteenth century, the island became a major center for the Portuguese. They built the Fort São Sebastião during this period. The island served as the capital of Portuguese East Africa. It was also a vital missionary centre. The island was a major post for Portuguese trips to India. Various goods were traded here, including gold, spices, and slaves. The island successfully defended itself against Dutch attacks in 1607 and 1608. Captain-general Dom Estêvão de Ataíde led this defense.

Many notable structures remain on the island today. The Palace and Chapel of São Paulo was built in 1640. It served as a Jesuit College and later as the Governor's Residence. It is now a museum. The Museum of Sacred Art is located in the Church of the Misericórdia. This museum displays a Makonde crucifix. Another major site is the hospital built in 1877. This neo-classical building once stood as the largest hospital south of the Sahara. It features a garden with ponds and fountains.

The island's economic importance changed over time. The opening of the Suez Canal caused its fortunes to wane. In 1898, the capital moved to Lourenço Marques, which is now Maputo. By the middle of the 20th century, the harbour at Nacala took most of the remaining business. Today, visitors come for the history and the sandy beaches. The Chocas Mar beach is a tourist highlight located 40 km north across Mossuril Bay. Lumbo Airport on the mainland serves the island's travelers.