Vila Algarve, Heritage building in KaMpfumo district, Mozambique.
Vila Algarve stands at the corner of Avenida Martires da Machava and Avenida Ahmed Sekou Toure, displaying crafted Azulejo tiles across its exterior walls. The structure is a two-story residence built with rendered stone and retains the decorative surface treatment from its original period.
The house was built in 1934 as a private residence and later served as the headquarters of PIDE, the secret police force during colonial rule. After Mozambique gained independence in 1975, its use for this purpose ended and the building eventually gained heritage protection status.
The structure displays handcrafted Azulejo tiles that represent a rare connection to early architectural traditions from the Iberian Peninsula. These decorative elements shape its exterior visibly and reflect the period when such craftsmanship was practiced in this region.
The building is located in an easily accessible spot in the heart of the district and is recognizable from nearby streets. The site can be visited during daylight hours, though it is wise to check beforehand about access rules through official channels since the structure is currently under government management.
The building is listed in the Portuguese Monuments Database under number 31730, recording its significance beyond the country's borders. This international registration makes it a rare example of how colonial-era architecture continues to be documented across nations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
