Port Moresby is the capital of Papua New Guinea. It is a city in an area originally inhabited by the Motu-Koitabu people, who were renowned for their seafaring and fishing. These indigenous people developed a complex culture and economy based on their ability to navigate and trade with other tribes along the coast. It was not until 1873 that British Captain John Moresby arrived and named the port after his father, Admiral Fairfax Moresby. This event marked the beginning of a new era for the area, as it quickly became an important trading centre. The British presence led to the establishment of a more formal administration and infrastructure, further promoting the city’s growth and development.

During World War II, Port Moresby played a strategic role as a key base for Allied forces. The city became a target for Japanese forces, but remained under Allied control, which was instrumental in the Allied success in the Pacific War. After the war, Port Moresby experienced a period of rapid development and modernisation. The city became the capital of independent Papua New Guinea in 1975, marking a new beginning for the nation. This transition to independence brought both challenges and opportunities as the city adjusted to its new role as the center of political and economic activity in the country.

Port Moresby’s city center is an area where modern and traditional elements blend together. The central urban space is located along Ela Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach and experience beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. You can also walk along the city’s main streets, Musgrave Street and Douglas Street, both of which are a short walk from Ela Beach. These streets are home to many of the city’s most important business and government buildings. Here you will find the city’s modern high-rise buildings, St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, where you can enjoy everything from local delicacies to international cuisine.

One of the most notable buildings in Port Moresby is the National Parliament House, located a short distance northeast of the city center by the harbor and Ela Beach. The parliament is an impressive modern building that integrates traditional motifs in its architecture and decoration, and its construction is a symbol of the nation’s pride and identity. The building was opened by Prince Charles in 1984, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens and green spaces, providing visitors with a peaceful oasis in the middle of one of the city’s interesting areas, which is home to several important institutions.

Immediately north of the country’s parliament building is the Papua New Guinea National Museum & Art Gallery, a must-see for visitors to Port Moresby. The museum houses an extensive collection of anthropological, archaeological and artistic objects that provide a fine insight into the country’s culture and history. The exhibitions span a wide range of topics, and you can learn more about everything from traditional ceremonies to modern works of art, and the museum also offers changing exhibitions and cultural events that further enrich the experience.

Port Moresby is also a city surrounded by beautiful and interesting nature, and there are many opportunities to enjoy it. In the city center you can enjoy the water along Ela Beach, and you can also choose a combined drive and boat trip to the small Loloata Island, which offers peaceful views and encounters with wildlife. If you stay on land, the botanical National Orchid Garden is located on the outskirts of Port Moresby. The garden is a good place to experience orchids, which originally come from Papua New Guinea, and there is also a rich birdlife here. At the National Orchid Garden you can also visit Adventure Park Papua New Guinea, which shows more of the country’s rich wildlife, such as tree kangaroos, crocodiles, pelicans and of course the iconic and stunningly beautiful birds of paradise. The bird of paradise adorns the flag of Papua New Guinea, and it and many other birds can be seen in the large Varirata National Park east of the capital.