Maputo Map

Description:

Description:

Maputo, formerly known as Lourenço Marques until 1976, is the capital and largest city of Mozambique. Located on the western shore of Maputo Bay, it serves as the country's chief port and its political, cultural, and economic center. The city has a population of approximately 1.1 million people (2017 census), while the greater metropolitan area houses about 2.5 million inhabitants.

The city was founded in the late 18th century and received its first European settlers in 1750. The Portuguese colonial administration significantly developed the city's infrastructure during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After Mozambique gained independence in 1975, the city's name was changed from Lourenço Marques to Maputo, honoring the Maputo River that flows through the region.

Maputo's economy is centered around its port, which handles much of Mozambique's and neighboring countries' import and export trade. The city is also a major manufacturing center, with industries including cement, pottery, furniture, shoes, and rubber. The service sector, including banking, insurance, and telecommunications, has grown significantly in recent years.

The city features several notable architectural landmarks and cultural sites. The Maputo Railway Station, built in 1910, is an impressive Beaux-Arts style building and a symbol of the city's colonial past. The Independence Square (Praça da Independência) houses the neoclassical City Hall and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The Iron House (Casa do Ferro), designed by Gustave Eiffel's company, stands as a unique example of prefabricated architecture. FEIMA (Feira de Artesanato, Flores e Gastronomica) is a popular crafts market showcasing local artisans' work.

The climate in Maputo is tropical savanna, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is around 73°F (23°C), with January being the hottest month and July the coolest. The city receives most of its rainfall between November and March.

Educational institutions in Maputo include Eduardo Mondlane University, the oldest and largest public university in Mozambique, and several technical and vocational schools. The city also hosts the National Museum of Art, the Natural History Museum, and numerous cultural centers that preserve and promote Mozambican art and history. Transportation infrastructure includes an international airport, a comprehensive bus network, and connections to South Africa and Eswatini via road and rail.