M'banza-Kongo, Angola, formerly known as São Salvador in Portuguese is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Angola. It is the capital of Angola's northwestern Zaire Province. The city of M'banza Kongo was founded some time before the arrival of the Portuguese. The region lies close to Angola's border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is positioned at around 6°16'0?S, 14°15'0?E. M'banza-Kongo, Angola sits on top of an impressive flat-topped mountain that is sometimes known as Mongo a Kaila.
M'banza-Kongo in Angola was at a time the home of the Manikongo. He was the ruler of the Kingdom of Kongo, which is situated at its peak.. The Jalankuwo or the Manikongo's judgment tree can still be found in the downtown area of the city on the grounds of the royal palace. Today it is a popular Royal Museum.
The region of M'banza-Kongo, Angola is also known for the ruins of its 16tth century cathedral that was built in the year 1549. Many of the Angolans claim that it is the oldest church in sub-Saharan Africa. The church is also locally known as nkulumbimbi. It is said that the church was built by angels overnight. The church was elevated to the status of cathedral in the year 1596. It was also visited by Pope John Paul II during his tour of Angola in 1992.
There is also another interesting site of historical significance in the city which was built in memory of King Afonso I's mother. It commemorates a popular legend which says that the king had buried his mother alive because she was not ready to give up a pagan necklace.
When the Portuguese came to the region, Mbanza Kongo was already a large town. It was perhaps the largest in sub-equatorial Africa. During the reign of Afonso I, many stone buildings were added to the city which includes a palace and several churches.
The city was affected many times during the civil wars that followed the battle of Mbwila (or Ulanga) in the year 1665. It slowly gathered its pieces and built itself and today stands as one of the popular holiday making destinations in the world.
For more information on M'banza-Kongo, Angola, visit travel.mapsofworld.com
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