Quilengues, Angola
Region: Huíla
Geographic Coordinates: -14.081400, 14.076400
Population: 113825
Language: Portuguese
Quilengues is a municipality in the Huila province of Angola, Located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Lubango, The provincial capital. The region has a rich history and culture dating back to pre-colonial times. The name Quilengues comes from the Umbundu language, Meaning place where there are many hills. The landscape of Quilengues is characterized by rolling hills and plateaus that stretch for miles on end. It’s a popular destination for tourists who come to explore its scenic landscapes, Waterfalls, And wildlife reserves.
One of the most notable attractions in Quilengues is Tundavala Gap, Which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy hiking through rugged terrain or simply relax and take in stunning vistas. Quilengues also boasts several cultural landmarks such as churches, Museums, And art galleries that provide insight into its rich heritage. Nossa Senhora do Monte Church was built during colonial times and still stands as an iconic symbol of Quilengues’ religious history. The economy relies heavily on agriculture with maize being one of its primary crops.
Other crops grown include beans, Potatoes, Cassava as well as fruits like oranges and bananas. Livestock farming also plays an important role in sustaining local communities. Despite its natural beauty and cultural significance, Quilengues faces several challenges including poverty levels due to limited access to education opportunities among other factors like poor infrastructure development which hinders economic growth within this region. Quilengues provides visitors with an opportunity to explore Angola’s captivating landscapes while experiencing its vibrant culture first-hand.
With so much to offer tourists interested in outdoor activities or cultural experiences alike – it’s no surprise why this part of Angola remains one of Africa’s hidden gems waiting for discovery.
- The major industries and businesses in Quilengues, Angola include:
- Agriculture
- Livestock farming
- Mining
- Small-scale businesses such as retail shops and restaurants
- The region is known for its production of:
- Coffee
- Maize
- Beans
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Mining activities in the area include the extraction of:
- Gold
- Diamonds
- Additionally, there are some small-scale manufacturing industries producing goods such as:
- Textiles
- Furniture
- The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale: Quilengues was one of the key locations during the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, which took place from 1987 to 1988. It was a major conflict between the South African Defence Force (SADF) and the People’s Armed Forces for the Liberation of Angola (FAPLA), supported by Cuban troops.
- Agostinho Neto: Agostinho Neto was an Angolan poet and politician who served as the first President of Angola from 1975 until his death in 1979. He played a key role in leading Angola to independence from Portugal.
- Jonas Savimbi: Jonas Savimbi was an Angolan politician and military leader who founded UNITA (National Union for Total Independence of Angola) in 1966, which fought against MPLA (People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola) during the Angolan Civil War.
- Huila Province: Quilengues is located within Huila Province, which is known for its coffee plantations, national parks, and cultural heritage sites such as Tchitundo-Hulu rock paintings.
- Portuguese colonization: Like much of Angola, Quilengues was colonized by Portugal in the late 19th century and remained under Portuguese rule until independence in 1975.
- Traditional cultures: The region around Quilengues has a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times when various ethnic groups lived there such as Nyaneka-Nkhumbi, Kuvale, Muhimba or Ovambo people among others who still maintain their traditional cultures today despite modernization pressures.
- Cango Monument: A historic monument that represents the struggle for independence in Angola.
- Tundavala Gap: A natural wonder with stunning views of the surrounding area.
- The Quilengues Art Center: An art center showcasing local Angolan artists and their work.
- The Kuvale Museum: A museum dedicated to the Kuvale people and their culture.
- The Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: A beautiful church with unique architecture and religious significance for locals.
- The Quilengues Municipal Market: A bustling market where visitors can buy fresh produce, crafts, and other local goods.
- Serra da Leba Pass: Another natural wonder with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Caves of Tchitundo-Hulo: Ancient caves with rock paintings dating back thousands of years ago.
- Calulu: a traditional Angolan dish made with dried fish or meat, onions, tomatoes, okra and palm oil.
- Churrascaria Quilengues: a Brazilian-style steakhouse that serves grilled meats and seafood.
- Restaurante Oásis: a casual eatery that offers local dishes such as moamba de galinha (chicken stew), feijoada (bean stew) and funge (cornmeal porridge).
- Pizzaria La Piazza: an Italian restaurant that serves pizza and pasta dishes.
- Espaço Verde Restaurant & Bar: a cozy spot that offers grilled fish, chicken kebabs and other Angolan specialties.
- Kafuka Cafe & Restaurante: a coffee shop that also serves light meals like sandwiches and salads.
- Pastelaria Doce Sabor: a bakery that offers sweet treats like cakes, pastries and ice cream.
- Casa da Juventude Restaurant & Bar: a lively spot with live music performances on weekends; they serve drinks and snacks like fried chicken wings, chipsi mayai (Tanzanian omelet) etc.
Overall, Quilengues has played an important role in Angola’s history, particularly during the country’s struggle for independence and civil war. It is also home to diverse ethnic groups with rich cultural traditions.
