Travel Guide Benguela

Benguela, Catumbela, Lobito, Baía Azul, Caotinha, Egito Praia… The names of this famous Angolan coastal region and very popular places, the tourist destination par excellence!After the arrival of Portuguese navigators in 1582, Benguela became an important commercial platform in the late th century, particularly linked to the slave trade in Brazil and Cuba, as evidenced by the former warehouses, including the Archaeological Museum. The first fortress dates back to 1587, the city was founded in 1617. Ships anchor in both Benguela and the deeper waters of Lobito. The location of Benguela is not one of the most sensible choices at the time because of marshes that contribute to the spread of many diseases among the population in the th and th centuries. Lobito with its sheltered bay is now the second Angolan port. The church of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, founded in the th century, bears witness to centuries of Portuguese presence in Benguela. It is said that this building is the first stone and lime construction of the city and a unique example throughout southern Africa.The Benguela economy began to prosper at the beginning of the th century with sisal fishing and culture that became a key industry in the region. The discovery of copper in the eastern part of the country leads to the construction of the CFB - Benguela Railway - from 1903 to connect mines to the port of Lobito. The armed struggle for independence between 1974 and 1961, followed by civil war, requires the closure of this railway, except for the 30 kilometre stretch between Benguela and Lobito. A large number of refugees arrive in the city fleeing from the fighting of the internal lands. The population of Benguela is increasing significantly. With the restoration of peace since 2002, the Angolan economy is rebuilding and developing. The port of Lobito grew and the railway line joined Luena in 2013. Tourism is one of the growing sectors. Luanda is administrative and political. Benguela is a merchant. This distinction between the two major coastal cities continues and contributes to their particularities. History, culture, colonial architecture and Art Deco, nature, beaches, restaurants, hotels, shops, etc. Everything is there for the visitor.Benguela is also famous for its acacias at the flowering of an exceptional red red, symbols of this airy city, restored, peaceful and well maintained.