National Library of Mozambique

The National Library of Mozambique (Biblioteca Nacional de Moçambique) is the country's primary bibliographic institution, located in the capital city, Maputo. Established officially in 1961, the library is housed in a grand neoclassical building that dates back to 1904, originally constructed to serve as the City Hall and later the Tax Office. The structure is an architectural highlight of the city, featuring a symmetrical facade, imposing columns, and high ceilings characteristic of early 20th-century European influence in the region. As the legal deposit library, it holds an extensive collection of every publication printed in Mozambique, along with rare historical documents from the colonial era and significant cartographic materials. The institution plays a crucial role in preserving the nation's literary heritage and fostering educational development. Beyond its academic function, the building itself is a protected monument, representing the historical administrative center of the former Lourenço Marques. It provides a vital space for researchers, students, and the general public to explore the country's intellectual history.

History & landmarks

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Maputo City Hall

A striking neoclassical building located in the heart of the capital.

Gil Vicente Theatre

A historic theatre and cinema with Art Deco influences in the center of Maputo.

Nucleo de Arte

An influential art center where local artists work and exhibit their pieces.

Tunduru Botanical Gardens Gates

The striking entrance gate and historic pavilion of the central botanical garden in Maputo.

Iron House

A building constructed entirely of iron plates, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel.

Samora Machel Statue

A monumental bronze statue of the first president of independent Mozambique.

Bank of Mozambique Headquarters

A striking modern skyscraper and the central financial institution of the country.

Central Market Maputo

A bustling historic market featuring beautiful iron architecture from the colonial era.

More places

Iron House (Casa de Ferro)

A building constructed entirely of iron from the late 19th century.

Maputo Cathedral

A striking white Art Deco building from the colonial era.

Maputo Fortress

A historic Portuguese fortress in the center of the capital.

Vila Algarve

A historic building in Maputo with a dark past as the PIDE headquarters.

Monument to the Great War

An impressive monument in Maputo commemorating the First World War.

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Maputo Railway Station

A magnificent historic railway station, often considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

Port of Maputo

One of the largest deep-water ports in East Africa, serving as a vital trade hub.

Church of Santo António da Polana

Unique modernist church in the shape of a lemon squeezer.