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National Slavery Museum: A Chronicle of Angolan History

Explore Angola's poignant history at the National Slavery Museum in Belas, a powerful memorial to the transatlantic slave trade.

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The National Slavery Museum in Belas, Angola, established in 1977, stands as a solemn reminder of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on Angola. Located beside the Capela da Casa Grande, where enslaved individuals were baptized, the museum displays artifacts and offers insights into this harrowing period.

A brief summary to National Slavery Museum

  • 24R3+FX4, Belas, AO
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Engage with the knowledgeable museum staff for deeper insights and answers to your questions.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Benfica crafts market for local artisanal products.
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and historical context.
  • Consider visiting in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Luanda, take a bus heading towards Belas. The bus fare is approximately 200 Kwanza (about $0.40 USD). The journey takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Once in Belas, ask locals for directions to 24R3+FX4, a short walk (approximately 1 km) from the bus stop.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Luanda city center to the National Slavery Museum in Belas typically costs between 3,050 to 5,200 Kwanzas, depending on the service and comfort level. The journey takes approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Services like UGo, Kubinga, and Heetch operate in Luanda.

  • Driving

    From central Luanda, head southwest on Avenida 4 de Fevereiro, then turn left onto Avenida da Liberdade. Follow signs for Belas and merge onto the EN-100 road south. Take the exit towards Belas and continue for 2 km to the coordinates 24R3+FX4. Tolls along the route may cost around 500 Kwanza (approximately $1 USD). Parking is available at the museum.

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Discover more about National Slavery Museum

The National Slavery Museum, situated in Belas, is an essential destination for tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Angola's historical journey and the impact of slavery. The museum serves as a powerful testament to the stories of resilience and survival, showcasing the painful yet vital narrative of an era that shaped not only Angola but the entire world. Visitors will be drawn to the museum's thoughtfully curated exhibitions that offer a comprehensive overview of the transatlantic slave trade, its origins, and the enduring legacy it has left on African communities. As you wander through the museum, you will encounter a range of artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays that vividly depict the lives of those who suffered under slavery, as well as the rich cultural heritage that emerged despite the adversities faced. The museum also features educational programs and guided tours, making it an enlightening experience for visitors of all ages. Established by the National Institute of Cultural Heritage, the museum is housed in the 17th-century Casa Grande Chapel, where slaves were baptized before being sent to the Americas. The location itself carries historical weight, as it was once owned by Dom Álvaro de Carvalho Matoso, a major slave trader. The museum's exhibits include shackles, documents, and tools related to the slave trade, providing a comprehensive view of this dark period. The museum serves not only as a reminder of a painful history but also as a beacon of hope and resilience, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Angola.

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