Bolama
Country: Guinea-Bissau
Region: Africa
Period: 1852-1942CE
Location: 11.576667°N, -15.1481°E
Description
Bolama is an island town in the Bijagós Archipelago and was the first capital of Portuguese Guinea (now Guinea-Bissau) from 1879 to 1941. Chosen for its strategic coastal location, Bolama served as an administrative center during early Portuguese colonial rule and featured European-style buildings and urban planning reflective of 19th-century colonial ambitions.
Modern Remains
Today, Bolama is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including administrative buildings, a former palace, and faded mansions—many in picturesque ruins. These remnants make the island a unique historical site. While less politically prominent now, Bolama stands as a cultural and historical monument to Guinea-Bissau’s colonial past, attracting visitors interested in its blend of natural beauty and colonial heritage.