São Sebastião Museum, National museum and fortress in Água Grande, São Tomé and Príncipe.
The São Sebastião Museum is a stone fortress with exhibition rooms displaying historical artifacts, religious artworks, and objects from the colonial period. The collection also includes materials related to marine turtle conservation and portraits of former colonial administrators.
Portuguese builders constructed this defensive fortress in 1566 to protect São Tomé's harbor from pirate attacks in the Gulf of Guinea. A lighthouse was added in 1866 to assist maritime navigation.
Religious artwork on display reflects the spiritual traditions that shaped the community, while ceremonial objects tell stories of customs practiced through generations. These items show how faith and ritual remain woven into daily life and local identity.
The location sits on Avenida Marginal 12 de Julho and is easy to reach. When arriving, ring the bell at the entrance if no staff member is immediately visible.
Three explorer statues stand in front of the fortress, marking its connection to the region's exploration history. These figures are often overlooked but represent one of the site's most intriguing details.
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