Bissau - the capital of Guinea-Bissau
In the twentieth century, without exception, all the countries of the black continent went through a difficult path to independence. Many of them were colonies of the great powers of the Old World - France, Germany, Portugal, Spain, and large cities were colonial centers. The capital of Guinea-Bissau, which was under the Portuguese protectorate, is also on this list, its official coat of arms and flag had European heraldic symbols and colors, although it could not do without African motives.
The main symbols of the capital
Two colors are used to depict the capital's flag, black and red, they are most often found in European symbolism. They are also associated with Portugal, which ruled both Guinea-Bissau and its capital. Three colors are used to depict the city's coat of arms - silver is added to black and red (it plays the role of a background). The main elements of the official symbol of the capital are: a scarlet fortress tower; two heads of blacks in red turbans; tape with the inscription - the name of the city.
Sad story
The appearance of Bissau on the map of the country is associated with unpleasant, if not tragic, periods in history. The settlement appeared thanks to the Portuguese colonialists, who did not come here in search of a better life or to create a prosperous city. Their goal is the slave trade, and the city was created as a fortified center for doing this unseemly business. Convenient geographic location, on the ocean shore, with a well-sheltered harbor accessible to ships, has served a disservice. Merchants from all over the world gathered here, and they were only interested in living goods.
Change of priorities
It is good that these terrible times are already in the past and the indigenous people of the country may not be afraid for their future. The economy of Bissau is still built around the existing port, the main activities are trade and industry. More than half of all industrial enterprises of the republic are concentrated in the capital, products are exported. Palm oil, peanuts, skins, timber are exported through the local port.
Tourism is a promising direction
Residents of Bissau understand that in the capital itself there are few objects worthy of attention for foreign travelers. Therefore, the main tourist routes run either along the outskirts of the capital, or to the islands lying in the Atlantic Ocean. According to many guests who have already been here, this is how paradise might look like - snow-white stripes of sandy beaches, azure ocean waves, mysterious mangrove forests.
