A Walking Tour of Maputo

Last week, I had the pleasure of going on a "Walking Tour of Maputo" led by  Jane Flood, an expat who has been living here for 6+ years. The group consisted of RT ladies, Itu - another guide and my Portuguese language teacher, Arcenio.

Jane showed us architecture by Senhor Pancho Guedes, a world renown architect, sculpture and painter, who designed many interesting buildings around Maputo. His style is very distinct and retro looking.

The Cathedral was magnificent! Very lovely and old. I would love to attend a mass there and hear the beautiful singing that i imagine would take place.

We tried to watch the local dance company practise their dances, but we were told to come back tomorrow. Another thing I must go back and do. Also, we went past the Museum of Art, but ran out of time to go in. Add that one to the list of to do again, too.

The highlight of the day for me was meeting the local, but world renown artist Mabunda. He sculptures  art from recycled ammunition , artillery and anything else his imagination can use. Fascinating. He invited us into his tidy abode to view some of his artwork. He has been all over the world showing his sculptures and paintings. I felt very honoured to meet him.

Had my first prego sandwich. A fresh bread roll with marinated beef and peri-peri sauce. Mmmm! very tasty. The Mozambicans make delicious bread without preservatives. So yummy!

Lastly, we visited the old fort and the Money Museum. Great places to take children and school excursions.

I hope to go with Jane again on another walking tour of Maputo. There is so much to see, do and learn when you travel. You always learn so much more when you go with a local and look at it from their perspectives.

Adeus meus amigos! Ate logo!

Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Imaculada Conceição

Beautiful stained glass windows

Very old paintings depicting when Christianity came to Mozambique

This organ once would have played beautiful music.

Loving the grandness and history of this glorious church.

Town Hall

Entrance to the City Hall

The Tailor and his models.

You can select from a wide range of styles....

in his modest store.

Chicken for dinner, anyone?

Shelling cashew nuts to sell on the streets.

Purchase the basic uniform...

add your school badge,

and buy your shoes on the way home!

A daycare/kindy in Maputo.

An old house opposite the Museum of Art.

Wet washing hanging on the line.

Our tour guide, Jane Flood, talking with the famous sculpture and artist, Mabunda.

Recycled ammunition and artillery to use.

My Portuguese teacher, Professor Arcenio and me admiring Mabunda's work.

Yikes! Don't sit there Mrs. O.!

What do you think this is, kids?

Clever , isn't he?

Thought the kids would love this one. 

Thought this information sign might help me get the courage to drive here.

Many drains without covers. You must always watch where you walk, or...

you could fall into a hole!

Someone just bought a mattress and is having it delivered!

A sculpture in an unaccessible garden.

A retired sculpture.

Chopellas. 

Laminating, Mozambican style! 

And to finish, press while still hot!

Selling snacks to the hungry.