Fortress of São Sebastião Travel Guide: Top Sights in Mozambique,

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Fortress of São Sebastião- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Mozambique; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

The Fort of São Sebastião, located at the northern tip of Ilha de Moçambique, is the oldest fully preserved fort in sub-Saharan Africa. Construction began in 1558 and took 62 years to complete, making it a significant example of military architecture from the era. The fort has withstood multiple attacks by Dutch, British, and Omani forces over the centuries. Despite its weathered condition, the fort's imposing structure and the panoramic views from its battlements offer a compelling insight into its historical significance. Just beyond the fort, visitors can also find the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte, the oldest European building in the southern hemisphere, dating back to 1522.

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Reviews of São Sebastião

Denise Nhapulo

5
Reviewed: 2023-02-09

Great history in this place. I recommend hiring a tourist guide to give an immersive experience about everything that happened here. A must see tourist spot.
Cristina Jimenez

4
Reviewed: 2019-11-11

Interesting to visit, nice views. Would be nicer if it had some information boards or something around to give some background.
Rufus Maculuve

5
Reviewed: 2019-06-17

Rich in history, pity not much is happening. It needs to be given a new life and a new meaning. Lots of battles were fought in this place and no one is really telling the stories properly, there are reports of a 6 months siege!
Warren Simangolwa

5
Reviewed: 2018-11-12

Every soul deserves to visit this spectacular sanctuary in a lifetime. With me, the entire escape was spiritual. The environment was tranquil and beautiful. The rich history for the place can't be said better without a proper sight visit. The locals are exceptionally friendly. So much that the entire place provides the ambiance of the weight it truly is. If you are a collector of art, their are very beautiful artifacts handmade at very reasonable prices. This is a visit of a lifetime.
Thomas MacDonald

4
Reviewed: 2017-08-21

100mts for locals 200mts for everyone else. The fort is impressive with lots of rooms and places inside to look at. The view from the top was amazing so take your camera. The tour guide was helpful and eager to answer questions.