Ilha de Mocambique

Ilha de Mocambique retains the rich aura of a long trading history that saw it thrive as the capital of Portuguese East Africa for four centuries until 1898. Moslem traders and shipbuilders from 10th century onwards were evicted by Portuguese weaponry in 1507 to establish control over coastal trade and a base for the route to India.

The coral island is linked to the mainland by an extended single-lane causeway. Under 3 kilometres in length, Ilha is a World Heritage Site for its mix of beautiful old Portuguese, Indian and Arab architecture, narrow streets and two-storey flat roofed buildings.

Archetypal narrow alleys and fading whitewashed buildings of the old town are reminiscent of Kenya's Lamu and Zanzibar's Stone Town. A walking tour takes in several fine colonial buildings, including the red-brick Palacio de Sao Paulo with 20 large rooms decorated in period style and lavishly furnished.

Impregnable 16th century Sao Sebastio Fortress occupies the northern tip of the island. It remains little changed over the years, remaining well preserved. It last saw service as Portuguese barracks during the colonial liberation war. Three great subterranean reservoirs still supply fresh water to the town. To the south , a small coral islet is occupied by Fort St Laurenco, dating back to 1695.