Quirimbas Islands is located in the Indian Ocean at northeastern Mozambique that is close to Pemba. It comprises of about 32 islands some of them are Ibo Matemo,Quirimba, Medjumbe, Rolas Quisiva and Metundo. Originally, it was home to fishing settlements and came under the Portuguese trading routes during which it was known as IIhas de Sao Lazaro. Before Mozambique gained independence, only four out 32 islands were inhabited. These islands are famous as diving sites and it consists of a national park named Quirimbas National Park covering an area of 7,500 square kilometers, which includes most southerly islands that are enclosed by mangroves and was established in 2002.
The island depicts several cultural stages that brought together various elements of the culture together of Africa. The main attracting feature of the island is the Stone Town of the Ibo Island, which is an outstanding example of interaction with culture. Various buildings represent the building style of Swahili matrix and contributions to the Portuguese, Arab and Indian Influences.
Image Source : OisAfrica