History of Cabinda

The history of Cabinda is a narrative of strategic location, colonial agreements, and natural riches that defined its unique path of development.

Foundation and First Mentions

Although the modern city of Cabinda was founded as a Portuguese settlement in 1883, the region's history dates back much further. One of the key moments in Cabinda's history was the signing of the Treaty of Simulambuco on February 1, 1885. This treaty between Portugal and local rulers officially formalised the creation of the Protectorate of Cabinda, which was initially administered separately from the colony of Angola. Cabinda received the status of a city significantly later, on May 28, 1956.

Key Factors of Formation

The city's development was driven by several factors. Its location on the Atlantic coast in a convenient bay made it an important trading point. The political geography of the region changed radically after the Berlin Conference (1884–1885), when a narrow strip of land along the Congo River was ceded to the Belgian Congo to ensure its access to the sea. This decision geographically separated Cabinda from the rest of Angola, creating an exclave. In 1956, following the discovery of significant oil reserves, the Portuguese administration merged the governance of Cabinda and Angola.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Initially, Cabinda's economy was focused on trade, as well as logging and fishing. The population of the region consists predominantly of the Bakongo people. The long period of administrative status separate from Angola contributed to the formation of a distinct regional identity among the inhabitants of Cabinda. The discovery of huge offshore oil fields in the mid-20th century completely changed the economic landscape, transforming Cabinda into the country's main oil-producing centre.

Chronology of Cabinda's History

The history of the city of Cabinda is filled with events related to the colonial era, the struggle for resources, and the formation of a unique regional identity. Below are the key moments that determined the fate of this strategically important port city.

• 1883 — Foundation of a Portuguese settlement on the site of the modern city of Cabinda, which became an important trading and administrative post.
• February 1, 1885 — Signing of the Treaty of Simulambuco between Portugal and local rulers, resulting in the creation of the Protectorate of Cabinda under Portuguese protection.
• 1885 — Following the Berlin Conference, colonial borders were revised, and Cabinda found itself geographically separated from the main territory of Angola by a strip of land granted to the Belgian Congo.
• May 28, 1956 — Cabinda was officially granted city status, reflecting its growing administrative and economic importance.
• 1956 — The Portuguese administration merges the management of the Protectorate of Cabinda with the colony of Angola, which would become a cause for disagreement in the future.
• 1963 — Foundation of the Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC) — a movement advocating for the region's independence.
• Late 1960s — Significant oil reserves were discovered on the shelf off the coast of Cabinda, turning the region into the main centre of oil production in Angola.
• 1975 — After Angola gained independence from Portugal, Angolan government forces established control over Cabinda, despite declarations of independence by separatist movements.
• 2010 — Cabinda hosted a number of matches for the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament, which attracted international attention to the city.

The history of Cabinda is a journey from a trading post to the main economic centre of Angola, shaped by colonial agreements and rich natural resources. The key transformations of the city are linked to its strategic port location and the discovery of oil fields.

Major milestones in the city's development:

• Foundation and early period. The modern city was founded by the Portuguese in 1883 as a trading post. Thanks to its convenient bay, it quickly became an important point for trade and shipping in a region that was historically a centre of local kingdoms.
• Signing of the Treaty of Simulambuco (1885). This treaty between Portugal and local rulers officially formalised the creation of the Protectorate of Cabinda. It was initially administered separately from Angola, laying the foundation for its special status.
• Obtaining city status (1956). On May 28, 1956, the settlement officially received city status, reflecting its growing administrative and economic importance. Around this time, the Portuguese administration merged the governance of Cabinda and Angola.
• Discovery of oil fields (1960s). The discovery of huge oil reserves offshore was a turning point in the history of Cabinda. This event radically changed the city's economy, transforming it from a centre of logging and agriculture into the country's main oil-producing region.
• Development of port infrastructure. With the start of the oil boom in the 1960s, the port of Cabinda was significantly modernised. It became a key logistics hub for the export of raw materials, which contributed to the further growth of the city.
• Rapid urbanisation. The oil era caused a rapid influx of population and active urban development. New residential quarters, public buildings, and roads were built in the city to meet the needs of the growing industry and residents.
• Strengthening the economic role. After Angola gained independence in 1975, Cabinda definitively secured its status as an economic locomotive, providing a significant part of national revenues through oil exports.

Cabinda's Architectural Appearance: From Colonial Heritage to Modern Projects

The architecture of Cabinda reflects its multi-layered history — from the Portuguese colonial past to modern development driven by its status as Angola's main oil centre. several key stages of urban planning can be traced in the city, which have formed its current appearance.

Colonial Period (Late 19th — Mid 20th Century)

The basis of Cabinda's historical development is Portuguese colonial architecture. This style is characterised by the use of materials such as clay, wood, and stone, giving the buildings durability and an authentic look. The development of that time was dominated by administrative buildings, residential houses, and religious structures, often centred around central squares, such as Pedro Benge Square.

Key monuments of this era:

• Church of Saint James the Greater (Igreja de São Tiago Maior): Located in Landana, this church, founded in 1873, is one of the oldest and most significant examples of colonial religious architecture in the region. The building, recognised as national cultural heritage, was distinguished by ornamented windows and glass imported from Europe. Despite a partial collapse in 2018, its restoration is planned.
• Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the World (Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora Rainha do Mundo): Another important religious structure symbolising the colonial heritage and cultural significance of the city.

Modernism and Post-War Development (from the 1960s)

A new stage in urban planning began in the 1960s, when Cabinda received city status and became the centre of the nascent oil industry. This period is characterised by the construction of functional and modernist buildings: new public institutions, residential quarters, and roads appeared. Architecture became more utilitarian, meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population and economy.

In the 21st century, the city's development continues within the framework of modern approaches to urbanism. Projects such as "Cabinda City" have appeared, developed with a focus on sustainable development, creating housing for different segments of the population, and preserving green zones. This approach, called "phased urbanism," aims for the harmonious and organic development of the urban environment in modern economic and social realities.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Cabinda

The history and culture of Cabinda are enriched by the contributions of many talented and influential people. From historical leaders and political figures to writers and athletes — here are some of the key figures whose names are inextricably linked with this region.

• Henrique N'zita Tiago — Historical leader and one of the founders of the Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC). For decades, he was a central figure in the movement for the region's self-determination, becoming a symbol of the political aspirations of part of Cabinda's population.
• António Bento Bembe — A prominent political figure in Cabinda. He was also one of the leaders of FLEC and later played a key role in peace negotiations with the Angolan government, making him an important figure in the modern political history of the province.
• Amélia da Lomba — A renowned Angolan writer, poet, and journalist born in Cabinda. Her literary works, translated into several languages, have made a significant contribution to the culture of Angola and the Portuguese-speaking world.
• Raul Tati — A priest, university lecturer, and public figure. Known as one of the authoritative figures of civil society in Cabinda, actively participating in the discussion of social and political issues of the region.
• Eduardo Camavinga — A world-famous footballer playing for Real Madrid and the French national team. He was born in Miconje, in the province of Cabinda, to a refugee family, which connects his origins to this region.
• Maurício Francisco Caetano "Mafrano" — A journalist and researcher who dedicated his work to studying and preserving the history and culture of the Bantu peoples. His book "Os Bantu na Visão de Mafrano" is considered an important contribution to understanding the cultural heritage of the region.
• Mambuco Puna — A historical ruler of the 19th century. He was one of the local leaders who played a key role in the events preceding the signing of the Treaty of Simulambuco in 1885, which defined the special status of Cabinda under the protectorate of Portugal.