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Angola’s Culture: The Rhythm of Life
Angola’s music, cuisine and cultural heritage blend indigenous African and Portuguese influences into a colourful mosaic of rhythm, history and culinary diversity.
Church of Our Lady of Pópulo in Benguela, Angola.
Angola’s rich history and cultural diversity make the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026 one of the most fascinating destinations in Southern Africa. Over centuries, Angolan culture has been shaped by a variety of influences – from indigenous African traditions and the Kingdom of Kongo to the Portuguese colonial period. This complexity is still reflected today in art, music, architecture and everyday life.
A Heritage of Centuries
Angola’s history stretches far back. Long before the arrival of the Portuguese in the 15th century, powerful kingdoms such as the Kingdom of Kongo existed, whose cultural influence can still be seen today. Luanda is one of Africa’s oldest European settlements, as historical buildings like the Fortaleza de São Miguel clearly demonstrate. Archaeological sites, including the more than 20,000-year-old rock engravings at Tchitundo-Hulu and ruins in Benguela, provide evidence of early settlement. The historic Benguela Railway, running from Lobito to Huambo, is another testimony to the colonial trade history and offers fascinating insights into historic Angola.
Vibrant Ethnic Diversity
Angola is home to over 100 ethnic groups, who have preserved their traditions, languages and ways of life for centuries. With a population of around 35 million, the country is a living mosaic of cultures, where music, art, rituals and daily life remain deeply rooted. For travellers, this offers rare insights into vibrant traditions and authentic indigenous lifestyles.
© Ministry of Tourism of Angola @ Kleber Group / Credit Robert Haidinger
A Celebration of Rhythm – Music & Dance
Music is central to Angolan culture. Semba, considered a precursor to Brazilian samba, is one of the most important traditional music styles. The sensual Kizomba has gained worldwide popularity, while Kuduro, an energetic genre with electronic beats, is one of Angola’s most dynamic cultural exports. Music accompanies daily life, religious celebrations and community rituals, expressing joy, unity and cultural identity. A key event in this scene is the Festisumbe International Music Festival, which grows every year and celebrates the diversity of Angolan music.
Angolan Cuisine – Influences from Three Continents
Angolan cuisine is a colourful mix of indigenous African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences – a culinary blend shaped by centuries of colonial history. Staples such as rice and funje – a polenta-like porridge made from cassava or maize flour – form the basis of many meals. Along the coast, fresh fish, seafood and lobster dominate. Beef and goat meat are widespread. A daring delicacy for adventurous eaters is catatos, fried caterpillars with garlic and spices. Bakeries also offer typical Portuguese treats such as pastel de nata. Churrasco (grilled meat skewers), Brazil’s national dish, is also popular and served in restaurants, street stalls and at festivals.
© Ministry of Tourism of Angola @ Kleber Group / Credit Robert Haidinger
© Ministry of Tourism of Angola
Art, Craft and Traditions
Beyond music and cuisine, Angola boasts a rich variety of handicrafts. Traditional techniques such as basket weaving, pottery and mask making reflect the cultural diversity of the country’s many ethnic groups. These handmade works are not only beautiful but often carry symbolic meanings for rituals and community identity.
Angola is a young country, and Luanda is a vibrant city with a growing street art scene, where young people express their creativity and voice. Murals and graffiti transform old urban spaces into lively public galleries. In districts such as Cacuaco and Sambizanga, street art reflects cultural identity, social themes and the creative energy of the capital.
For more information on Angola, the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026, visit www.angolatourism.com.