ILHA DA PONTA DO PADRÃO

Ilha da Ponta do Padrão or kikongo Dixilo Die Bokolo.

«Aqui passam os Caminhos da História»

Five centuries later, trampling the sand of the island's tip at the mouth of the Congo River rush the imagination of European visitors. It was here in 1482 that Diogo Cão landed and placed his first Padrão, a stone stone surmounted by a cross to mark the new territories conquered by the Portuguese Crown. This Portuguese explorer was responsible, by the King of Portugal Jean II, for continuing exploration on the African coasts. He was the first European to discover the Congo River and walk on this beach. Here came the Paths of History.

Pata da Maria or Kikongo Tambi kia Madia.

It is, within the island, a mystic place of metres in diameter where mysteriously nothing grows despite all the vegetation surrounding it. It practises a traditional ritual led by the Soba, the local traditional authorities and the community of local fishermen. The ceremonial spirit is inspired by offers, meditate, agenouillements, incantations, libations and songs. According to legend, the statue of Santa Maria, refusing to be taken to Portugal, fell to water when the ship approached the high seas. What would have created Pata de Maria.

Today, two forms of visit and celebration are possible:

A quick version of the ritual in the presence of the Soba, a few escorts on the island and visitors, for which it only has a simple handkerchief, a few notes and a single bottle of wine.

The complete ritual, better appreciated by visitors, requires the participation of all inhabitants of the island and their drums. The allée, which leads to pata, is covered with loincloths. This second formula calls for prior organisation and consultation, and a more appropriate budget.

It is also reported that the island has a very large number of snakes. Reptiles captured at some private sites in the town of Soyo would then be released on the island. A South African known as "Mister Cobra" would be the instigator. This is why it is advisable to equip yourself with closed shoes (tennis or hiking shoes) to visit the island.