Maputo Railway Station

The Central Railway Station was constructed between 1908 to 1916 in the Beaux-Arts style and looks more like a palace than a station. Widely recognised for its attractiveness, the station has been ranked by international publications as one of the world’s most beautiful railway stations. In addition to serving as an active train terminus, it contains a rail museum, food venues, and holds music events.  It links Maputo with South Africa, Eswatini and Zimbabwe.

The initial plans were inspired by the old central terminus in Johannesburg, South Africa, but with a grander facade. The building is of the Neoclassical Beaux-Arts style.  At the centre of the station’s grand facade is a tall arch topped by the largest of the building’s three domes.  The copper-clad semi-spherical central dome brings the building’s height to 51 metres. Ornamental features, including marble pillars and wrought iron latticework, contribute to its aesthetic appearance.