The colonial past in Cape Verde’s architecture: a walk through the main vestiges
Cape Verde was discovered by a Portuguese expedition in the 15th century. At that time, the archipelago was uninhabited and covered by a dense green mantle. Its incredible natural beauty encouraged the newcomers to settle in the archipelago, gradually erecting the first cities. Today, Cape Verde’s architecture is the best witness of its colonial past. In this article, we will take a look at the main cities and other vestiges of the Portuguese heritage in this African country.
Cidade Velha, the first settlement
The name of this city located on the island of Santiago is no coincidence. Not in vain, it is the oldest city in the country and, therefore, the first founded by the Portuguese in the archipelago. Originally known as Rivera Grande, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Due to its strategic location, it was constantly subject to pirate attacks, although it still preserves some colonial vestiges.
One of the most important monuments of this city located a few kilometers from Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is the Royal Fort of San Felipe, which crowns the top of a hill. Also in the Old City is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, considered the oldest colonial temple in the world. Finally, it is worth mentioning the Sé Cathedral, now in ruins.
"Stroll aimlessly through the narrow streets of this city, where you will discover various colonial-style houses, painted in bright colors and with wooden balconies."
Praia, the capital
Praia also invites you to immerse yourself in Cape Verdean architecture through its churches and monuments. The attraction of the capital goes beyond its beaches of crystalline waters and its exciting nightlife. It is enough to wander through the neighborhood of Várzea to enjoy the colonial-style buildings. Among them, the Presidential Palace and the Jaime Mota Barracks stand out.
Mindelo
The cultural capital of Cape Verde is also the second largest city of the archipelago. Hometown of the singer Cesária Évora, music is one of its most prominent hallmarks, but also the colonial-style mansions that brighten up every step. One of the most emblematic buildings is the People’s Palace, where the Carnival Museum is located. Casa Colonial is one of the oldest buildings in the capital of the island of Sao Vicente, although it has been restored.
Sao Felipe, another example of colonial architecture
Sao Felipe, capital of the enigmatic island of Fogo, is another point of interest on a tour of Cape Verde’s colonial architecture. On an island dominated almost entirely by an impressive volcano, it is quite a surprise to find a place like Sao Felipe. It is worth strolling aimlessly through the narrow streets of this town, where you will discover several colonial-style houses, painted in bright colors and with wooden balconies. Not only the facades of these houses are attractive, but also their interiors. Not surprisingly, many of them, although restored, retain the interior layout. At the Casa da Memória museum you will have the opportunity to delve into the history of Sao Felipe.
These four points are a must on a tour of Cape Verde’s most representative architecture – an intense walk through the African country’s past!
