The Fortress of São Miguel. is a massive, historic stronghold standing tall on the São Miguel hill overlooking the bay of Luanda. Built by the Portuguese in 1576 under the direction of Paulo Dias de Novais, it is the oldest surviving colonial fortification in the capital city. For centuries, this fortified complex served as the defensive heart of Luanda and a central hub for the slave trade before becoming a major prison in the 20th century. Today, the fortress houses the National Museum of Military History, where visitors can explore an impressive outdoor display of historical weapons, tanks, and aircraft alongside a remarkable collection of colonial era tiles that depict the history of Angola.