Previously known as Lourenco Marques prior to independence being declared in 1975, Maputo is the capital and largest city in Mozambique.
It covers just over 346 square kilometres, and has a population of well over 1.7 million people. As Maputo is a harbour city, its entire economy revolves around the harbour. Some of the chief exports of the city include sugar, copra, hardwood, cotton, chromite and sugar. Even though the city is completely surrounded by the province of Maputo, the city is administered as its own entity.
The style and architecture of the buildings in Maputo is very Mediterranean. With its lovely waterside location and streets ruled by flame trees and jacarandas. It would be safe to say that it is definitely one of the prettier cities in Africa.
The city itself is also very well developed and you will find all of the usual tourist necessities such as pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, cafes and supermarkets, and has a great lively vibe.
There are a selection of noteworthy landmarks in the city such as the Cathedral of Maputo, the Museum of Natural, the History Fortress of Maputo, Vila Algarve which is the former home to the Secret Police, the Central Railway Station, Hotel Polana, Tunduru Gardens, and the Chissano Gallery.
For the night owls, there are some very cool places worth checking out such as Docks, Africa Bar, and La Dolce Vita
