Hidden beneath Luanda’s iconic Marginal, the Museu da Moeda is much more than an exhibition space — it’s a subterranean vault of time where the economic soul of Angola is traced from shells and salt to coins and Kwanza notes.

Inaugurated in May 2016 by the National Bank of Angola, this underground architectural marvel occupies more than 4,000 square metres below Praça Saidy Mingas. Visitors are welcomed into a sleek, modern space built with local materials — from polished Namibe marble to Benguela limestone — designed to blend seamlessly into the city’s surface while offering a journey deep into Angola’s financial heritage.

The museum’s collection unfolds chronologically, beginning with pre-monetary exchange systems — zimbo shells, salt, copper, ivory — moving through colonial currencies, and culminating in the birth of the Kwanza in 1977. Audiovisual guides, artefacts, and immersive displays make this story accessible and engaging for all ages.

The Museu da Moeda also features temporary and permanent exhibitions, audiovisual rooms, and interactive spaces that highlight the intimate link between currency and national identity. The infrastructure includes a souvenir shop, café, and comfortable visitor amenities, making it a full cultural experience.

Whether you’re a curious traveller, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates well-curated cultural spaces, this museum is a must-visit. Here, the story of Angola’s economy is told not just through objects — but through the resilience, innovation, and identity of its people.