Nampula is a province rich in landscapes, history and is very well positioned strategically, as can be seen in the cities of Nampula, Ilha de Moçambique, Angoche and Nacala, one of the best natural ports in Africa.

There are a number of ideas as to the original name of this small coral island. Some say it is Muipiti, others say that the name Mozambique which came into use in the XVI century, originated from Mussa-Bin-Biki, the name of the son of the Sultan Bin-Biki, once lord of the island. Many different races from distant lands passed through, but in particular the Arabs used it as a commercial settlement to trade with the interior and the entire Mozambique coastline.

In 1498, Portuguese navigators landed there, took over the island and expelled all those who had interests on the island. They made it into a strategic point from where they could venture into the rest of the country. For this purpose the fort of São Sebastião was built and also a“feitoria” (trading post).

The province of Nampula, or more correctly the “Ilha de Moçambique” was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in recognition of its unique cultural and architectural heritage and can be considered the birthplace of the Mozambique Nation.