The Fortress of São Miguel stands tall on a hill overlooking Luanda Bay. Portuguese founder Paulo Dias de Novais built it in 1576. It remains the oldest colonial fort in the city.

For centuries, this strong structure protected Luanda. Later, it served as a slave trade hub and a major prison. Today, the fort holds the National Museum of Military History. Visitors can walk around old tanks, weapons, and historic aircraft. Inside, beautiful colonial tile panels show scenes from Angola’s history.