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Mozambique's recorded history goes back many centuries and the country has been subject to conquest and exploitation since time immemorial. As early as AD600 Arab traders had established contact with the local inhabitants and subsequently established fortified trading posts along the coastline. Via these trading posts slaves, gold and ivory were shipped to the Arab world.
Ibo Island is one of the most ancient settlements in Mozambique. The specific history of Ibo can be dated back to at least the 1600 - Chinese grave stones still bear their readable dates, though Arab influence dates earlier. The Fort of Forma de Cisterna was constructed by the Arabs even before the Portuguese occupation. |
Virtually unknown to the outside world and undisturbed for centuries, Ibo is a place where time has stood still. Nestled in the awesome Quirimbas Archipelago of northern Mozambique, and nominated for World Heritage status, Ibo is an island that is beautiful, remote and untouched by commercial developments and one of the most intriguing, idyllic and romantic islands you could dream of visiting.
For the last 500 years Ibo Island was a prosperous trading post along the stunning coast of East Africa. Three forts, a beautiful old catholic church and numerous ancient trading buildings stand guard over the sea. Pirates, ivory and intrigue and the never to be forgotten slave trade, featured on this little palm-fringed coral island. Boundless secrets, history and culture are still contained amongst the island’s marvellous ruins.
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