Happy TravellerWelcome to Bissau, the capital and largest city of Guinea-Bissau! Located on the Geba River estuary, off the Atlantic Ocean, Bissau is a major port and the administrative and military center of the country. Founded in 1687 by Portugal as a fortified port and trading center, Bissau has a rich history and culture waiting to be explored.
One of the most interesting things about Bissau is its etymology. The term Bissau may have come from the name of a clan Nnssassun, in its plural form Bôssassun. Intchassu (Bôssassu) was the name given to the nephew of King Mecau—the first sovereign of the island of Bissau—, son of his sister Pungenhum. Bôssassu formed a clan of the Papel peoples.
Bissau was the scene of intense fighting during the beginning and end of the Guinea-Bissau Civil War in 1998 and 1999. However, the city has since recovered and is now a bustling hub of activity. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Bissau:
– Fortaleza de São José da Amura: This 18th-century fortress was built by the Portuguese and now contains the mausoleum of Amílcar Cabral, a national hero of Guinea-Bissau.
– Pidjiguiti Memorial: This memorial commemorates the dockers killed in the Bissau Dockers Strike on August 3, 1959.
– Guinea-Bissau National Arts Institute: This institute showcases the rich artistic heritage of Guinea-Bissau and is a must-visit for art lovers.
– Bissau New Stadium: This stadium is the home of many of Bissau’s football teams and is a great place to catch a game.
– Local beaches: Bissau is located on the coast and has several beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Bissau is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features a mix of African and Portuguese influences. Some of the must-try dishes include caldo de peixe (fish stew), arroz de marisco (seafood rice), and cachupa (a stew made with beans, corn, and meat).
Getting to Bissau is easy thanks to Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, the country’s sole international airport. The city is also connected to the rest of the country and the continent by the Trans–West African Coastal Highway and several smaller national highways.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just soaking up the sun on the beach, Bissau has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!
