SOTAVENTO MUNICIPALITIES – Cidades Saudáveis

Creation

According to history, in 1642 there were already some living souls, perhaps some people who dedicated themselves to the grazing of animals and other tasks. They say it was discovered in 1460, but there is another version that says in 1446 was visited by navigators called Antonio da Nola, Vicente de Lagos and Luis de Cadamosto.

They say that its name May has to do with the month in which it was discovered. It was initially used as an island for raising cattle, mainly goats, until its settlement that only began in the late 16th century.

The first culture introduced in the island was cotton, slowly abandoned due to the increased interest in salt extraction, which became the main activity, in the hands of an English company during the 19th century - hence the designation of Porto Inglês for the village of Maio, the county seat and recently elevated to the category of city.

Geographic location

The island of Maio is part of the Sotavento group of the Cape Verde Archipelago and is the southernmost of all the shallow islands located in the eastern part of the country. It has an elliptical shape, whose main axis is in a north-south direction along the 23º 10' meridian. It covers an area of 275 Km2, representing 6.8% of the national territory. It is about 24,5Km long by 16 Km wide. The maximum altitude is 437 meters. The highest point is called Monte Penoso and has a maximum elevation of 436 m. Vila do Porto Inglês or Vila do Maio is the biggest urban centre of the island.

Population

According to data from INE, the resident population of the municipality of Maio is 7215 thousand inhabitants. The island's population increased from 7111 to 7215 inhabitants between the years 2017 - 2018, showing a growth.

In the island of Maio the main economic activities that contribute to the creation of the main sources of income are the extraction of salt, coal production and production of the famous cheese. Artisanal fishing, cattle raising and traditional agriculture are complementary activities that also contribute to improve the economic conditions of the local population.

Agriculture/Forestry

Among the flat islands of the country, the island of Maio appears as the one with the greatest agricultural potential due to less arid climatic conditions and soils with a greater agricultural vocation.

The main crops grown in dry conditions are corn, beans, watermelon, pumpkin and sweet potato.

Of the three flat islands of the country, Maio is the one that has developed the most intense forestation programs. This greater forestry interest is due to the fact that the island has better soils and a somewhat more favourable rainfall regime.

According to official data, currently the forest area of the island is about 4400ha, being approximately 1,192,108 of fixed plants. The plantations around the community of Calheta were installed by the Portuguese in 1974 (574ha), constituting the largest forest perimeter of the archipelago.

Livestock

Cattle breeding has been practiced on the island since its occupation, constituting an important sector for the local population, being of particular economic interest. Traditionally goat skins, dried and salted meat were produced for local consumption and for export.

Industry

The industry sector can be the main source of income for the local population, since the island has great potential for raw materials such as clay, limestone, gypsum and salt. The industry is considered a weak point for the island because despite the existence of potentialities in this sector.

Trade

Trade has great importance in promoting economic activities where tourism can be an alternative to increase the flow of local trade, contributing to the development of the island by improving infrastructure. One of the major sources of income for local communities has been the production and sale of coal, salt and cheese.

Fishing

Fishing on the island of Maio, practiced in an artisanal way, is an important activity for the local population. The island's sea is rich in fishing resources. The island's platform is estimated at 2,450 Km2, forming together with Boavista Island, the largest island platform in the country (6,450 Km2), which has an important stock of fishing resources, especially demersal species, coastal pelagic, oceanic pelagic and coastal lobsters.

Although it is one of the islands with the greatest potential in sun and beach tourism, this activity is still incipient. Difficulties of maritime access persist and air connections are still low. To a great extent the island of Maio is considered a peripheral island, despite the great proximity of the country's capital.

The island's natural conditions are a great attraction for tourism. The environmental values associated with the tranquillity of the island and its cultural and ethnographic richness are potentialities that are being explored, and the sector is in its initial phase of development.

The environmental resources that support the development of the sector are the beaches of white sand and crystal clear waters and the pleasant climate all year round. There are great potentialities for the practice of nautical sports (windsurfing, sport fishing, etc.).

There are favourable conditions for the practice of ecotourism, through the proper use of natural resources (natural landscapes, flora, fauna).

Natural attractions

The natural potentialities are determining factors in a destination that has great natural riches, such as the island of Maio. The island has many natural resources, such as beaches, large extensions of dunes, Integrated Tourism Development Zones (ZDTIs), natural salt pan, forest area, which has played an important role in combating desertification, increasing soil capacity for infiltration and water retention, improving the landscape and living conditions of the population, especially income for the rural population, because it generates employment and allows obtaining income from plantations.

Ilha do Maio is rich in values and traditions, the cultural manifestations are centered in the pilgrimage festivals, tocathon groups, music, dance, gastronomy and handicraft. Some effort has been made by the competent authorities to create more infrastructures and equipment, such as the creation of social and leisure spaces for the population, namely the "Casa da Juventude", which helps to promote and develop the socio-cultural aspect. Several sports infrastructures were also created.

Some institutions, such as HABITÁFRICA, in partnership with the Island's Town Hall, have been surveying the island's cultural, immaterial and material heritage. It should be noted that the recognition of architectural heritage is of great socio-cultural importance and allows a better preservation of it.

The main potential risk identified for the island of Maio is the drought which, in the past, has had harmful effects on the economy and human lives. The monitoring of the drought and its effects is done in a systemic way by several central government services, covering Civil Security, the Food Security Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.

In the recent period, cases of drought have been mitigated through emergency programs with the creation of jobs to help the affected peasants, the distribution of water by autotankers, etc.

The strong winds from the passage of cyclones also constitute risks because, although they are rare, they are difficult to predict. Another risk to take into account is the rise of the sea, which could affect the community of Calheta, where the houses are located at very low levels and near the sea.

A present risk is pests and epidemics, the last major pests recorded in Cape Verde are associated with the invasion of the desert grasshopper (Schistocerca gregaria), which constitutes a danger especially for agriculture if the invasion coincides with the rainy season.

http://www.cmpraia.cv/

Municipality of Praia

The municipality of Praia is in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, less than 400 km from Senegal, on the west coast of Africa, where it serves as a rotating platform between the three continents.

Praia Healthy City

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With the advent of national independence in 1975, the city of Praia experienced a population explosion as a result of a strong migratory movement from the remaining islands and municipalities of the country towards the capital. It was also during this same period that the emerging neighbourhoods near the Plateau, until then the administrative headquarters of the country, became an integral part of the city and this time could be included in the city's urbanisation and infrastructure plans.

It has since become the largest population centre in the country, with a population of 131,602 according to data published in the 2010 Census (INE, 2010). Today, this figure represents more than 45% of the resident population of Santiago Island and more than 25% of the total population of the archipelago.

It is therefore a cosmopolitan city, with essentially urban characteristics, the target of intense migratory movements (both from other municipalities and from abroad) and subject to strong demographic pressure.

Creation

Cidade da Praia arose following the decline of Ribeira Grande de Santigo (now Cidade Velha). Its settlement was due to the good conditions it presented at the time, as it was located on an airy plateau that allowed the sighting of the enemies from afar, as well as the good port that allowed the navigation of ships and large streams that had water that allowed the supply of ships that docked at the port.

After some resistance, in 1770 there was the official passage from Ribeira Grande to Cidade da Praia.

Geographic localization

It is located in the south of the island of Santiago, between the parallels 14°53' 15°00' and the meridians 23°28' and 23° 43'.

The municipality of Praia is in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, less than 400 km from Senegal, on the west African coast, where it serves as a rotating platform between the three contentes. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west by the Ribeira Grande de Santiago to the north and by São Domingos to the east and south. It is a territory of about 80 km.

Population

Based on the 2010 Census data, it is estimated that the city of Praia has a resident population of 131,719 inhabitants, representing 26.9% of the national population (491,875 inhabitants), living in a municipal area of 258.1 km2. The resident population in the urban area is 127,826 inhabitants (97%), which makes Praia one of the cities with the highest population density in the world. Similarly to the country, there is a predominance of the female population in Praia (50.9%).

The municipality of Praia concentrates about ¼ of the population of Cape Verde. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE, 2010), the population has quadrupled in the last 50 years, reaching 131,719 inhabitants in 2010, with a population density of 1,297 inhabitants/km. It is the main economic hub of the country, since it concentrates most of the companies and services, the latter employing more than 80% of the working population.

Agriculture

The drought and cultural reasons justify the great lack of green areas in Cape Verde's cities. In fact, the lack of water or its high cost does not allow for the irrigation of vegetation in the cities, which is further aggravated by the high evapotranspiration in the arid climate of the islands. However, there is still no tradition of green areas, which makes it difficult to use modern technology and wastewater to create green spaces.

Livestock

Livestock farming in the municipality is an almost expressionless activity. There are small breeders on the outskirts of the city but only for subsistence and in some cases, raising animals in the houses, which is not advisable by the local authorities.

Industry

Besides the services produced by the public sector, the city of Praia already has a well consolidated business sector, it is in the capital that the main industries of the country and most of the services produced by the country are located, without being able to emphasize the growing specialization of business that is taking place in the islands of Sal, Boa Vista and, partially, the island of São Vicente.

For example, the capital is currently home to the most important stone extraction and transformation industries, the result of the strong dynamics of the construction sector, motivated by the strong investment in infrastructure in the capital. It also has emerging industries, such as the production of medicines, which increasingly export to the continental countries of Africa and, exceptionally agri-food for the diaspora. The city is also home to the headquarters of shipping companies that increasingly dominate transport to Europe and, recently, to Africa.

Trade

Characterised by small productive units, the business sector in Praia comprises about 6 thousand of the 24 thousand informal units existing in the country, predominating in the sectors of commerce (57%), industry (21%) and services (21%). More than 80% of these units have only 1 worker.

The capital has a considerable number of street or informal sellers, especially around the main markets of the capital: Sucupira and Plateau.

Fishing

Fishing is one of the municipality's very important activities, both in terms of contribution to Gross Domestic Product and in terms of job creation.

As far as small-scale fishing is concerned, official statistics point to an average annual catch equivalent to 2200 tonnes and an average productivity per fisherman of around 2.9 tonnes over the last five years.

Both artisanal and industrial fisheries play an important role in the municipality's economy through supply for consumption and as an employer.

It should be noted that in relation to tourism, the sector with the highest growth in the country, the contribution of the City of Praia is still very incipient.

The capital of the country benefits from a short term tourism more focused on business. This vocation has been taken advantage of in a very consistent way, and has even boosted investment in establishments and services to support the activity.

In 2010, the island of Santiago as a whole comprised 42 hotel establishments, representing 24% of the total number of establishments in the country, and in terms of number of beds and rooms 11% and 14% respectively. The number of guests represented approximately 14% of the total and the number of overnight stays only 4%, thus indicating a short stay tourism, more compatible with business tourism than with the beach and sun tourism that the country offers, particularly on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista.

Natural attractions

The existence of tourist resources and attractions is the basic condition for the tourist development of any region or locality.

Port of Praia Bay

This bay extends from Ponta da Mulher Branca to Ponta Temerosa, where D. Maria Pia Lighthouse is located. Given the visual field it provides from Diogo Gomes, Plateau or D. Maria Pia Lighthouse, it is an important natural element in the set of attractions existing in the City of Praia.

It is also of important historical value for the port function it performed in the early days of the occupation of Praia and the island of Santiago.

Gamboa Beach

It is located in the south of the city of Praia and is part of the Bay of the Port of Praia. It has 1,2km of extension and, it is constituted essentially by white sand. Although it is a beach of great extension, it is little frequented by bathers.

It is a beach used for the landing of fishing boats and for large events such as the Gamboa festival and other programmed events. It is easily accessible by foot or car.

Prainha Beach

It is a small beach, about 78m long, located on the coast of the Prainha area. It is a shelter beach constituted by white sand, crystalline water that is in good condition, easy to access and very frequented by bathers.

Still in the outskirts are some historical monuments, namely the D. Maria Pia Lighthouse and the São José Seminary, part of whose facilities was once the former Lazareto.

Quebra Canela Beach

It is located in the south of the city of Praia, more specifically in the area of Quebra Canela. It is also a shelter beach with about 450m of extension, constituted by white sand and crystalline water. It is easily accessible and has a number of basic infrastructures and tourist support services such as hotels, bars, restaurants and shopping.

San Francisco Beach

It is located in the area of San Francisco and about 13 km away from the city of Praia. It is a beach constituted by white sand that is in a good state of conservation and of easy access.

San Francisco Cave

This cave is located in the area of São Francisco, more specifically in the town of Ponta Mendes. It is a cave made up of basalt stones, arranged in horizontal slats, about 10m deep. Its interior looks like a kind of gallery that provokes a sensation of something mysterious to be unveiled.

Portinho Beach

This beach is located on the south slope of the Achada Grande area, near Ponta Bicuda, one of the tourist development areas of the city of Praia. It is a small, sheltered beach, made up of white sand, crystalline water and has good conditions for bathing tourism. The cliffs are very steep and consist of calcarinites, underwater washes and basaltic rocks.

Ponta Temeros

It is located in the south of Praia. It is a geositium that is singular for its geological characteristics. It is the place where underwater lavas are best represented and are arranged in large rolls, in which they have a glassy crust cracked according to irregular polygonal shapes. The entire surrounding region is rich in geological elements, with the "furna" of the St Joseph's Seminary standing out, resembling a small "geyser", and the numerous basaltic, some sub-horizontal and others horizontal filaments which run through the underwater drains.

Calcarenitos, Port of Praia

It is a geological heritage located near the port of Praia. They are sedimentary formations, with a whitish colour. Its tourist interest is due to the fact that it is rare, and it is also imposing for its beauty.

Monte Vermelho

It is a volcanic cone, located in the south of Praia, more specifically in Achada de Palmarejo. It is essentially formed by pyroclastic material and its morphology looks like a "couscous binde". With about 195m of altitude, it is singular for its protuberance and reddish colour, reason of its designation. It is the most recent testimony of the volcanic eruptions that took place on the island of Santiago.

Monte Babosa

It is a tabular relief, located in the southwest area of Praia, northeast of Mount Vermelho, near the so-called industrial area of Tira Chapéu. It has 189 metres of altitude and is easily accessible.

It is an elevation that stands out for the fact that from there it has the best panoramic view of the city of Praia, reason why the zone where it is implanted is called "Bela Vista".

São Jorginho, Ribeira de São Jorge

São Jorginho is a town located in Ribeira de São Jorge, north of the city of Praia. There is a vigorous vegetation cover, with emphasis on arboreal species, with a predominance of fruit trees, such as: mango trees, coconut trees, tamarinds and date palms, which gives rise to a pleasant microclimate.

It is a pleasant place that stands out in the landscape for its green appearance, that is, it is considered a "green lung" species.

The Historic Centre of the City of Praia is located in the south of the island of Santiago, with an average altitude of 35m. It rises on a small plateau that dominates the wide bay defined by the cables of Ponta Temerosa and Ponta de Mulher Branca.

The origin of the Historical Centre is directly related to the decline of Ribeira Grande de Santigo (now Cidade Velha) which was the first settlement nucleus installed by the Portuguese on the West African coast in the 15th century.

On the Plateau site, the first buildings began to be built around 1540.

Historical and cultural attractions

Presidency of the Republic Palace

The Presidential Palace situated in the Historic Centre of the Plateau was built at the end of the 19th century. Over the years it has performed various functions, including the residence of the Governors General of the Province of Cape Verde and the Palace of the Presidency of the Republic, a function it still holds. It is accessible and is under restoration work.

Obelisk, on the Sá de Bandeira square

It is located at the entrance of the Palace, next to the Banco Comercial do Atlântico. It was built in 1939 to mark the three-year anniversary of the restoration of Portugal, which took place in 1640.

Diogo Afonso Statue

It is located in the historic centre of the city, more precisely in front of the Presidential house, with its face facing the sea. It is a historical and cultural monument of great relevance to the history of Cape Verde.

It was built in 1956 in honour of Diogo Afonso, the discoverer of the Cape Verde islands. There, one can appreciate all the ramp of Achada Santo António, Monte Vermelho, Farol, Baía da Praia and Ilhéu de Santa Maria. It is an authentic viewpoint of Praia, due to its strategic location.

Alexandre Albuquerque Square

It is a historical monument located in the centre of the city, housing the bust of Alexandre Albuquerque, and in front of it, other monuments of relevance to the history of the country. At the end of the 19th century it was the Pelourinho Square, after 1876 it was called Praça do Albuquerque in honour of the services rendered by Caetano Alexandre de Almeida, as Governor of the city.

Bust of Alexandre Albuquerque

It was built in 1927 by the sculptor Francisco Franco, in honour of one of the Portuguese governors of that time, for the effort he made to dignify the city and the Praiense society, having as concern the ornamentation and embellishment of the city.

Bust Serpa Pinto

Also located in the square, built in 1926, the bust of Serpa Pinto represents the gratitude that the city of Praia wanted to honour the then Governor Serpa Pinto who ruled from 1894 to 1897. An emblematic figure that is part of colonial history.

Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça

It is located in the centre of Cidade da Praia, in front of Alexandre Albuquerque Square. It was built in the late 19th century, and early 20th century (1903). It is a lime stone structure with a tile roof. This church stands out for its architecture from colonial times - the beauty and geometry of the arches that define the doors and windows and the decorative figures that are found there. However, it is known that the first church was built in 1886 at the request of Bishop Joaquim of the Diocese of Cape Verde.

Building of the City Hall of Praia

It is a historical heritage, located on the Plateau and built in 1858 by the then governor of Cape Verde Province. This building served as the office of the Prime Minister of the archipelago. Later, with the political opening, it housed the office of the Mayor and his councillors.

Ildo Lobo Palace of Culture, former City Palace

It is located in front of Alexandre Albuquerque Square, on Amilcar Cabral Avenue. It is a building that has imposed itself in the set of other buildings of particular nature. In this city it is a symbol of the housing of the wealthiest classes. The name given was in homage to the already deceased musician and man of the Capeverdean culture Ildo Lobo, one of the most respected musicians of the Archipelago.

Serbam House

It is located in the Historical Center, with the main façade to the old Rua Sá Bandeira, now Avenida Amílcar Cabral. It was probably built in the 19th century and belonged to the Sérgio Monteiro Mendes family (SERBAM).

Feba House

Located in the Historical Center of the Beach, in front of Alexandre Albuquerque Square, with the main façade to the current Amílcar Cabral Avenue. It is believed to have been built by Bento Levy, a native of Portugal, a great merchant and land owner in the interior of Santiago.

Pink house

It is located on the plateau. It represents one of the old houses of the late nineteenth century that imposes itself, both for its typical architecture of the time, but also for its greatness. At the time, it was located in one of the axis of the city's expansion which was occupied by the wealthier classes.

Forte

It is located in the south of Praia and confronts the top of the cliff that descends towards the sea. It is a structure that was built at the beginning of the occupation of the plateau to defend the city from the successive pirate attacks that the island was facing.

Pedestrian Street

It is located in the old 5 de Julho Street, in Plateau. This street was recently inaugurated. It has banks and various restaurants, bars and shops. It stands out for its singularity, because being pedestrian, the visitors circulate in safety and tranquility conditions. There, various events are organised, as well as handicraft exhibitions, agricultural fairs, entertainment and leisure activities.

Ethnographic Museum

This Museum is located exactly on Pedestrian Street and contains a collection of objects that represent the traditional uses and customs of the Cape Verdean people. A historical building which, due to its patrimonial and architectural value in itself, constitutes an attraction.

Domingos Ramos High School

An emblematic building located in the historic centre of Praia, where he played an important role in the formation of important personalities of Cape Verde. Its architectural structure is imposed by the marked characteristics of the colonial era and loaded with historical symbolism. It has a circular Praceta that constitutes a leisure area.

Municipal Market

Located in the heart of the city of Praia, its construction dates back to the end of the 19th century. In the national historical archive you can find images that were captured in 1907. It stands out for its historical patrimonial value, but also for the fact that it is a stage par excellence, where one can experience the Cape Verdean culture in its most varied dimensions.

Sucupira Market

Located in Avenida Cidade de Lisboa, one of the busiest avenues in Praia. It is the place where you can experience the cultural diversity taking into account the number of dialects you can hear, the way you dress, and a very refined climate that invites visitors to have a direct contact with the population.

Still in this space, you can find everything from clothing, food, handicrafts, decoration articles, and still around there are exchange services, travel agencies and gas stations.

Bust Amílcar Cabral

Statue located on the National Library square, Tahiti area. This monument is about 6 metres high and was erected in honour of the freedom fighter of the Homeland, for the tribute paid to the Nation. It was inaugurated on 5 July 2000, when the 25th anniversary of Cape Verde's Independence was commemorated. He is a charismatic figure and is highly respected at national and international level.

National Library

This library is located in the Tahiti area, near Avenida Cidade de Lisboa, very close to the Amilcar Cabral Statue. It is an infrastructure with modern architectural features that serves not only as a place for research, but also, occasionally, for exhibition and sale of books, as well as, venues for major events. Its architecture can arouse visitors' interest and curiosity.

Bridge São Januário Pier and New Bridge Pier

The São Januário Quay Bridge is located on Avenida Marginal, right in front of the Diogo Gomes Statue, very close to Electra. The construction of the Port of Praia began around 1858 with the San Januário Pier.

It was the most frequented port in the archipelago at that time, due to its importance from a commercial point of view. The name is a tribute to the engineer who was at the origin of its construction.

In view of the difficulties that the San Januário Pier was facing due to its depth and, they say, because of the existence of many pebbles, the new bridge was built in 1880 in wooden structures.

Monument, to the Victims of Hunger and the Disaster of Assistance

Located on the marginal avenue, the road leading to the Plateau, this monument represents the sad memory of the disaster that shook the country in 1947.

National Institute of Historical Archives

Located on the marginal avenue, this historic and heritage building was built at the end of the 19th century and was linked to the development of commercial activities. After successive remodellings and functional changes, it still preserves the original architecture of the colonial era. Nowadays, it performs the function of National Historical Archive.

The D. Maria Pia Lighthouse

Maria Pia Lighthouse, also known as Farol da Ponta Temerosa or Farol da Praia, is located at Ponta Temerosa, on the west side of the harbour entrance, next to the São José Seminar. It was built at the end of the 19th century to support maritime navigation and, it should be noted, the name was in honour of Queen D. Maria Pia. It is characterised by an octagonal masonry tower, about 21m high and the whole structure painted white, with the grey lantern dome.

Lazareto

These are quarantine buildings, usually built on isolated sites, to prevent the spread of epidemics. It was the first in Cape Verde, built on the islet of Santa Maria around 1858. Later, it was transferred to Ponta Temerosa (now the São José Seminary).

Pope's Cross

Located on the tip of Achada Santo António, panoramic view to the sea and beach of Quebra Canela. It was inaugurated in 2008 and a statue in memory of the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II was erected. It contemplates around it, besides a playground very frequented, a leisure area and constitutes an authentic belvedere, if not one of the best located in the city.

Antonio Loreno Square (Pracinha da Escola Grande)

It is located on the Plateau, opposite the old Escola Grande and Café Sofia. It was built in the 19th century as the private square of Central School No. 1 in the Province of Cape Verde, Escola Grande. Its construction was linked to the surrounding public buildings of the time and still serves as a leisure space today.

5 de Julho Park

It is located in the lower part of the city, specifically on the farm, next to the informal market of Sucupira. It was built in the 80s to serve as a leisure area, but also as a "lung of the city" and stages for cultural events.

A number of plant species are part of the floristic composition of the interior of the 5 de Julho park. Among these, the following stand out: Nilotic acacia, Phoenix Atlantic, Azidirata Indica, Atriplex mumularia, Tamarindus indica, Acacia albida and many other ornamental shrub species, including xerophytic plants.

National Stadium

It is a sports infrastructure, located in the area of Achada São Filipe, more precisely, next to the roundabout of the national road that gives access to the interior of Santiago. It is the largest sports development in the country, with a modern architecture that stands out for its grandiosity. It was inaugurated in August 2014 and has conditions to host major international competitions.

Historical and cultural attractions

Carnival

It is a cultural event that is celebrated every year during the ashes in Santiago. Several carnival groups parade on Avenida Cidade de Lisboa to commemorate the carnival party that has been gaining expression in the capital of the country. In a colourful party atmosphere and accompanied by lots of batucada, people from various parts of the island head to the city of Praia to spontaneously participate in this event.

Festiva de Gamboa

Held in the month of May, as part of the celebrations of the Praia festival, the festival of Gamboa is one of the biggest musical events in Cape Verde. It is an event that takes place for 3 consecutive days on the beach. The same name attracts thousands of visitors, both national and foreign. There, a mixture of various musical rhythms takes place, in an atmosphere of much partying and conviviality.

Tabanca

Tabanca is a cultural manifestation with African roots. In the city of Praia there are at least three (3) groups: Tabanca da Várzea, Tabanca de Achada Santo António and Tabanca de Achada Grande Frente.

This event takes place between the months of May and June, with a parade in a mixture of colours and costumes mobilising hundreds of people where they pass in a warm rhythm of drums, horns and singers spreading the joy of the Cape Verdean people.

Pilgrimage and Folklore Parties

Popular festivals are manifestations of particular significance, both for the value they represent from a symbolic and religious point of view, but they also have a whole festive dimension which constitute an important vector of attraction. Among the religious manifestations of greater prominence is the feast of Our Lady of Grace that is celebrated on August 15th, in the Mother Church of Praia.

Still, there are other religious festivals, such as that of Nhô São Filipe, commemorated on May 1st, in São Filipe and that of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, in Achada Santo António, which is celebrated on June 13th.

Atlantic Music Expo (AME)

It is usually celebrated in the first half of April, preceding the Kriol Jazz Festival (KJF). It takes place in the Plateau, where several stages are organized, in different streets, simultaneously. Several activities are presented, such as fairs, exhibitions, various national and international musical styles.

It is an event of international nature, bringing to the Cape Verdean capital producer, agents, show managers, artist, thus constituting an authentic showcase of music. It is an event organized by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the City Hall of Praia.

Kriol Jazz Festival (KJF)

It is celebrated in April at the Plateau, right after AME. It is an international event that is associated with one of the most prestigious music schools in the world-Berkley School in the United States of America.

It usually takes place over 3 consecutive days and is a place of fusion of various cultures. This event has already entered the world festivals catalogue, as it has been distinguished as one of the twenty best festivals in the world by the English magazine Songlines. It is a partnership between the City Hall of Praia and Harmonia.

White Night

It is an event whose initiative is due to the City Hall of Praia that occurs in Plateau. It marks the beginning of the Christmas season and usually happens on the last Saturday before Christmas.

Among the range of activities, stand out the drumming, music, various fairs, photographic exhibitions, dance, fashion shows, concerts and theatre. This event takes place at dawn where the costume is white to symbolize peace.

São Domingos Healthy City

There is growing concern in Praia about the environmental degradation caused by accelerated urban growth that facilitates soil contamination and destruction, the occupation of areas unsuitable for housing construction, and the underutilization and misuse of natural resources. The physical and chemical pollution of water sources and resources, together with the dangers and risks created by the population itself with the undisciplined disposal of industrial and solid urban waste are other latent concerns.

The quality of the urban landscape has been hampered by the extraction of aggregates in the urban perimeter, as is the case of Mount Red, generating an image of gutted slopes and craters damaging the aesthetic quality of the hills and mountains. At the same time, the spillage of debris in the vicinity of roads, water lines and slopes generates a chaotic image of poor management of community spaces.

Another aspect of environmental preservation and landscape qualification is related to the city's grey area, which highlights one of its major and most recurrent challenges - urban management.

http://cmsd.cv/

Municipality of São Domingos

The Municipality of São Domingos is a rural municipality on the island of Santiago, Cape Verde, with 137.6 km² and 13,305 inhabitants.

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CAPE VERDE AMBITION 2030

The Municipality of São Domingos is distributed in two Parishes with 27 localities:

Parish of São Nicolau Tolentino with the headquarters in São Domingos - Várzea da Igreja, has about 8,910 inhabitants in 16 localities namely: Nora, Pau de Saco, Chaminé, Mato Afonso, Banana, Ribeirão de Cal, Godim, Água de Gato, Lagoa, Achada Mitra, Rui Vaz, Dacabalaio, Ribeirão Chiqueiro, Fontes de Almeida and Veneza. It is limited by the following confrontations: Campanário Mountain, Pico Leão, West and North of Rui Vaz, Rema Mountain, Alto do Godim, Diferença Mountain, Mato Afonso, Solé Mountain, Chaminé Mountain, White Corn, right bank of Ribeira de Vale Cachopo, Pedregal, Cows Mountain, Achada Ventreiro, Figueira de Portugal, West of Achadinha do Meio, Escontra and Pico Leão.

The socio-political context started to count on some changes, both in the conceptual field and in the assumption of a new political "ethos" in which new values and principles were incorporated, which would lead to significant changes in the way of exercising power. Thus, from 1992 onwards, an irreversible process of affirmation of local power began, through the participation of citizens in the choice of their local representatives, strengthening and legitimising their powers and defining a new relationship between the central power and the local authorities, with the latter seeing their attributions increased and relying on resources and means likely to make the policy of decentralisation operational.

The importance of local power seems to be an undeniable fact recognised both by the government and by development partners and other social actors. Moreover, the creation of new municipalities by the central government and the increasing support of international bodies, municipalities and foreign countries for decentralized efforts and initiatives seem to be a clear sign of this recognition.

Most of its population is engaged in subsistence economic activities in the agriculture, livestock and fisheries sectors. Dry farming, which occupies about 95% of arable land, is its main economic activity. But studies in rural communities in the municipality of S. Domingos show that between 80 and 90 % of families in the agro-forestry-pastoral area depend on non-agricultural income and about 65 % of coastal people obtain their income from fishing. However, the system of fishing is traditional and sufficient to support families.

In São Domingos, a rural municipality where agriculture, livestock and fishing are major sectors in determining the unemployment rate, if the preferred reference period for data collection is the rainy season, that rate may reflect the reality at that time. But in the dry season the unemployment rate almost triples.

Agriculture

Agriculture is one of the most important livelihoods for the people of Santo Domingo, whose agricultural population represents 91% of the population.

The municipality occupies an area of 143 km2, of which 16.2% is arable land, a figure which is above the national average, which is around 10%, and has a total of 1,750 farms.

The dryland regime is the predominant one (95%), practised both in the mountainous regions (Rui - Vaz e Loura) and in the coastal areas (Baía, Moía - Moía and Praia Baixo), passing through the plains and valleys and the municipality's own headquarters (Várzea Igreja and its outlying spaces).

The main crops practiced in the dryland are corn and beans. Sweet potatoes, cassava and common potatoes are grown in the higher, more temperate and humid areas, in this case in the villages of Curralinho and Rui Vaz.

Livestock

Livestock farming is a sector of activity of socio-economic importance at municipality level, practiced by almost all rural and urban families, whose practice has a favourable impact on the financial and food security of many households.

The main constraints in the livestock sector are structural, socio-economic, climatic and physical, namely the lack of water and watering points in areas with some pastoral vocation, the limited forage base, the poor management of the silvo pastoral areas and the predominance of traditional breeding systems.

Trade

The commercial activity practiced in the municipality of São Domingos is undoubtedly very expressive, since many are those who dedicate themselves to this activity, in a formal, informal, itinerant, home-made way, through small companies and with great incidence on the part of women.

The products sold range from fish, fresh and processed agricultural products, personal use items, handicraft items, household utility items, clothing, footwear, among others. This activity is often used to escape unemployment.

The commercial activity is developed in the two markets, one located in Milho Branco and the other in the Vila da Várzea da Igreja, where the infrastructures have recently been remodelled, but needing municipal slaughterhouses.

Fishing

Fishing is an economic activity of importance for the municipality and particularly for the populations of Praia Baixo, Baia, Moía-Moía and Val da Custa populated along the municipality's coast, located in the parish of Nossa Senhora da Luz.

This activity represents the economic base of about 65% of families in these villages and contributes significantly to the improvement of the diet of the population of the municipality.

The fishing resources constitute one of the few important natural resources of the municipality, contributing to the diet of the population and with potential for wealth creation through exports.

Tourism represents a sector that, if promoted in a sustainable way, can contribute to the strategic development of the municipality and to the improvement of the quality of life of the local population.

As being zones of tourist potentiality, they stand out for its importance, the zone of Praia Baixo, situated in the coast 10Km from the Village and 20Km from the City of Praia, where it is possible to practise the sun and beach tourism, zone this benefited by the existence of hotel infrastructures and similar, the locality of Rui Vaz, located in the high zone, 4 km from the Village, where it is possible to practise the mountain tourism or ecological tourism to which it is associated a mild, fresh climate and with a peculiar landscape, characterized by the presence of an exuberant vegetation.

The local handicraft translates into a long tradition, which although being an activity of little economic significance, is associated with the development of tourism. Its importance also comes from the need to preserve the cultural heritage.

The production, collection and commercialisation of handmade pieces, such as binde, pot, vases, which may gain a greater expression of being produced in a semi-industrial way, stands out in the municipality.

Natural attractions

Rui Vaz and Serra de Pico de Antonia

Rui Vaz and Serra do Pico de Antonia are two contiguous areas located in the southern part of the island of Santiago, at an altitude of between 820m and 1392m, the latter corresponding to the highest point of the island. Due to the altitude effect, it benefits from a microclimate, typical of high areas with mild temperatures and abundant rainfall, in a rainy year.

The mountains of Rui Vaz and Serra de Pico de Antonia represent one of the most important mountain ecosystems on the island of Santiago and Cape Verde. There is a great variety of floristic and faunal species, some of which are endemic, among which we can mention the Língua de Vaca, Tortolho, Losna, Marmulano, among others.

Rui Vaz and Serra de Pico de Antonia belong to the category of Natural Park, a national heritage, of scientific and tourist interest.

Rui Vaz and Monte Pico de Antónia

It is an accessible area that is part of the tourist itinerary of the island of Santiago that can be visited at any time of the day. Here you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view before sunset and appreciate some endemic species there.

With a privileged location you can enjoy a breathtaking view, which on days of good visibility you can reach the island of Maio. From Rui Vaz you can see Mount Tchota, the Pico de Antonia mountain which is the highest point of Santiago.

Água de Gato

The town of Água de Gato is located in the northwest part of the municipality of S. Domingos, approximately 350 to 400m of altitude, between Rui Vaz, Lagoa and Godim. It has a mild and mild microclimate.

It has a rugged relief covered with various types of vegetation, considered the "lung of S. Domingos". One of the tree species that stands out in the landscape is Calabaceira. There are springs with permanent water courses in this location, such as Laranjeira, Ribeira Grande and Galeria de Ribeira Baixo. Água de Gato was the place where the famous poet, playwright, musician and composer Fulgêncio Tavares, better known as "Ano Nobu", by Lém Pereira, was born and lived.

Locality of Água de Gato

The town of Água de Gato has good conditions for the practice of rural tourism, due to its vegetation, the practice of agriculture, cattle breeding, the way of life of the residents, the trapiches that exist there, the culture, particularly the festivals, music, old-fashioned houses, etc. It is a locality that is frequently visited by tourists and people from the city of Praia. Right at the entrance of the locality you will find a small square, called 'praça trapiche', because it has in its interior this old mill used in the production of brandy.

Miradouro de portal

Located on the road leading to Rui Vaz, halfway down. It is a natural viewpoint, located at about 600m of altitude and allows visitors to have a panoramic view of Ribeira Funda, Monte Leão or Monte Areia and the so-called 'Monte de Água'.

Miradouro sito nas cabeceiras do Vale do São Jorge

In the town of Rui Vaz in Cabeceiras do Vale de São Jorge, just after Quinta da Montanha at about 820m altitude. It provides a wide visual basin, allowing the contemplation of Mount João Teves, the whole São Domingos Valley.

Domingos Valley

It is a U-shaped valley, carved in an ancient eruptive complex (CA) that develops from the Montes Leão and Bode, crossing the Ribeira de S. Domingos and flows into the Bay of Achada Baleia. The orography of this valley contemplates several abrupt slopes and sculpted peaks, with the highlights being mount Bidela, mount Leão, mount Chaminé, mount Rem-Rem and Mendes Faleiro.

Monte Bidela

It is an outcrop of basaltic nature that imposes itself by its altitude and morphology, and can be observed right at the entrance of the area of Variante São Domingos. It has about 508m of altitude and, from the entrance of Variante or White Corn, a locality of Nazaré, it can be appreciated almost in its fullness. The best time of the year to visit is between the months of August and December that covers of green, when it rains. It can be part of the touristic landscape route.

Monte de Nora

They are two outcrops of basaltic nature forming a mountain range situated between the Nora valley and the Ribeira de São Domingos. It has about 558m of altitude and is a place that serves as habitat for some species of birds such as raven, French owl, among others.

Its morphology and imposing landscape make this natural heritage a tourist reference point to consider in Santiago's touristic route. It can be observed or contemplated at any time of the year, but it is more inviting in the rainy season that it covers from green.

Rui Vaz and Pico de Antonia Natural Park

This Natural Park is located in Rui Vaz at about 859m altitude. From the climatic point of view it belongs to the humid and sub-humid floor. In morphological terms, it is a mountainous ensemble with steep slopes and spontaneous vegetation cover, with introduced forest species and endemic plants.

This mountainous group constitutes a vast area that runs from Pico de Antonia to Curralinho forming a mountain range. Its altitude allows an expressive microclimate differentiation in floors, so that a certain degree of humidity is registered throughout the year, resulting from rainfall in the rainy season and hidden precipitation in the coolest months.

Curralinho Forest Perimeter

It is an extensive area of vegetation covering the north of the area of Rui Vaz and Loura as far as the Pico de Antonia mountain range, passing through "Monte Tchota".

It is a place with endemic, medicinal and ornamental trees and shrubs to be preserved, which is a potential for ecotourism. It has been classified as a protected area due to its plant potential and scientific relevance.

Vale de Ribeirão Fundo

It is located on the northern slope of the municipality and on the southern part of Rui Vaz. It has a morphology characterized by steep and verdant slopes, deep valleys, with cloaks of endemic plant species that make it a relatively exuberant landscape in the context of Cape Verde. For those who climb Rui Vaz, right at the entrance they come across this landscape that invites them to contemplate and take photographs. There, one can develop activities such as climbing, rappelling and hiking.

Monte Gémeos de Caiada

It is a natural heritage located high up in the town of Caiada and on the way to Rui Vaz. Its configuration looks like the image of two twin sisters. From this hill, one can have a wide panoramic view of the whole valley of São Domingos.

Robão Cal Cave

The Ribeirão Cal Cave is located in the north of the municipality of São Domingos, in the locality of Robão Cal, more specifically in the Ribeira de Santa Helena. It is a narrow vertical cave, where stalactites and stalagmites which resemble elephant teeth stand out.

These characteristics give it a rare beauty in the context of the island of santiago. Research carried out ensures that the origin of the cave is due to the precipitation of calcium carbonate which was at the origin of the limestone rocks when the climate on the island was wetter.

The exploitation of the carbonate rocks for the production of lime in kilns, in ancient times, was the origin of the name of the locality. The stream where it is located has a diversified biodiversity, with several species of birds and endemic vegetation standing out, namely some breeds of pigeons, crows, herons and some medicinal and ornamental plants that must be preserved.

The Ribeira carved in basaltos with prismatic columnar disjunction, presents a green shrubby vegetation, fed by small fresh water springs, therefore of great tourist interest.

Ribeirão de Cal Cave

Access is difficult and signage lacks precision. Nearby, irrigation farming is practiced. According to the residents, lately there has been some demand from foreign visitors which testifies to the importance of this cave as a tourist attraction of great value.

Parede (dE dEuS) nhordés

Located on the slope of Mount Bidela and made up of basaltic rocks, superimposed one on top of the other in an aligned manner, giving the impression of a wall. It is a set of huge, overlapping stones, which seem to have been placed on purpose. It is unique for its magnificence in the landscape and scenic beauty that arouses visitors' curiosity.

Alcatraz Bay in N. S. da Luz

It is an extensive bay of black sand, but it cannot be bathed due to the characteristics of the water and sand inside that does not allow bathing.

It was there that one of the oldest churches of the African continent was erected, called Nossa Senhora da Luz church, recently rehabilitated. Its landscape allied to the material and immaterial historical heritage can serve as a tourist attraction.

Praia Baixo Beach

It is a beach with a longitudinal profile, located in the south zone of São Domingos municipality. One of the widest beaches on the island of Santiago, made up of a mixture of white and black sand, giving a light grey tone, which differs from the other beaches.

São Francisco Beach

Located in San Francisco, it is a small beach of white sand and crystalline water, presents the shape of a "U". It has unique characteristics, which motivate many people, both national and foreign, to visit it and enjoy it.

São Domingos is, on the other hand, the borough of some of the most important names in Cape Verdean musical culture, such as Fulgêncio Tavares (Ano Nobo); Gregório Vaz (Codé di Dona), António Vaz Cabral (N'Toni Denti D'Oru), Pedro Mendes Sanches Robalo (Manu Mendi), and is therefore a cultural stage par excellence.

The followers of these precursors maintain a lively culture with cultural groups of great activity, both in Praia Baixo, Água de Gato, Várzea da Igreja, Rui-Vaz or Loura, among others. The dynamism of these groups demonstrates the potential of rural tourism that the Council can provide in the various communities.

The framing of the villages in a programmed tourist itinerary, with the promotion of the traditional manifestations, as the music, the theatre and the culinary, are fundamental aspects, of the potentialities of the Municipality that make it one of the most attractive points of the island.

Material Attractions

Valley of the Church

Várzea da Igreja is a small urban centre located in the São Domingos Valley, where most of the administrative services of the municipality are concentrated. The Town Hall building with its modern architecture a green garden, is one of the most emblematic attractions of the city.

In the town of Várzea da Igreja you can visit the local Handicraft Centre where the production, collection and commercialisation of handicraft pieces is done. A production made from cloths (lace, embroidery, dolls, etc.). There is also a ceramic factory with a handicraft shop, where it is currently deactivated.

From the historical point of view, the valley of São Domingos hosted the first Jesuit community in Cape Verde.

Church of S. Nicolau Tolentino

This church is situated in the centre of the city of São Domingos and is part of the parish of the same name. It is an architectural style church with marks from colonial times and is currently under restoration.

This church celebrates Mass in honour of several saints, among whom Saint Nicholas Tolentino on 10 September and Saint Dominic (Nhu Febreru) on 2 February.

Church of N.S. da Luz

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Luz is located in the area of Baía dos Alcatrazes. It was one of the first churches built by the Portuguese in the tropics, besides that of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, in Cidade Velha.

Churches of Milho Branco

These churches are located in the central area of Milho Branco, just a few metres from the main road to the city of Pedra Badejo. There are two churches, an old one surrounded by ornamental plants and the modern one with a more modern architectural style, built by Father Fernando Ferro, of Portuguese nationality who was for some time in charge of this parish. This church was inaugurated in 2013 by the Bishop of the Diocese of Santiago.

Rui Vaz Chapel

It is a chapel located in the locality of Rui Vaz with a colonial architectural style, with two side naves and a cross with the image of Jesus Christ with a pigeon, just ahead. This chapel celebrates the feast of the Holy Family on 31 December.

Chapel of Sagrada Coração de Jesus

It is a religious heritage located in the recently built area of Godim, where it has a regular state of conservation. It is easily accessible due to its location, as it is situated next to the main road. This heritage can be part of the religious and cultural touristic route.

Estrela do Mar Chapel

This Chapel is located in Praia Baixo, near one of the most extensive beaches on the island of Santiago, considered an important seaside resort. It is a colonial style chapel, with similar characteristics to the Chapels of the Parish of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, where the Holy Patron saint is celebrated on 30 June the feast of the Starfish.

Chapel of Imaculada Coração de Maria

It was recently built and is located in the town of Agua de Gato. The feasts of the Immaculate Heart of Mary are celebrated in late May and early June. The architectural style is defined by arches in rhombus shapes, either on the doors or on the top of the roof, giving a certain balance and harmony from an aesthetic point of view.

Chapel of Nossa Senhora Porto Salvo

It is located in the area of Robão Cal. It is a religious heritage, whose construction dates back to the first quarter of the 19th century (1822).

It has an architecture from the colonial period. It stands out for its antiquity and all the history associated with it must be rescued and valued as a collective memory

Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Conceição

It is located in Banana, in the municipality of São Domingos. The feasts of Our Lady of Conceição are celebrated on December 8. The church is in a state of degraded conservation. It is a church, whose architectural style is modern and has no roof. It has a patio and shady trees. The church is easily accessible.

Church of Ponta Baixo

Located in the area of Rui Vaz, more specifically in the area of Ponta Baixa. It is a church that was built in the 90s. In this church the Holy Family is celebrated on the first Sunday after Christmas. In the courtyard there is a tree species shaped like Dragoeiro, whose common name in the area is "rubber". The place where the church is located is an authentic natural belvedere that provides a panoramic view of the City of Praia, São Domingos Valley, São Francisco and Monte Leão.

Immaterial Attractions

Festivals, pilgrimages and gastronomy

The feasts and pilgrimages are moments of encounter between profane and sacred. It is an opportunity for visitors to interact with the local population, but also to get to know and appreciate the culture of the different localities. It can be used to promote religious tourism. However, it is necessary to work on these festivals from the perspective of their promotion as a tourist product.

Nhu Febreru" festival Santo Domingo

It is celebrated on February 2nd in honour of Our Lady of Candeias. It consists of a mass and procession through the streets of the district where the church is located. This feast mobilizes hundreds of faithful, both national and those of the diaspora. During the week of the feast, some cultural activities take place, such as: festival, electronic tent, fair, gastronomy. It represents the business card with regard to the municipality's gastronomy. It is made in the traditional way, the base of corn, fish and potatoes. It is much sought after by visitors, especially in the afternoon.

Handicraft

Accompanying the tourist activity, the local handicraft has gained expression, very rich and creative. The production, collection and commercialisation of traditional handicraft pieces, such as binde, pot and vases, which are commercialised in the two sales units in operation (i.e. the Rabenta Cooperative and the São Domingos Ceramics Factory), stand out. The traditional production of cloth weaving, lacework, embroidery and balaysian production, although on a domestic basis, is also worth mentioning.

Santa Catarina Healthy City

Santo Domingo is quite vulnerable to natural disasters, particularly those caused by floods and possible flooding during the rainy season, and landslides, due to the orography of the municipality's land and its steep slopes. Although these occurrences have hardly been noticed in the Council, more and more constructions can be observed on the slopes, on the terraces and closer to the water lines. This is the result of the growth of the centre of the Church's floodplain.

On the other hand, being a Council with strong forestry potential, there are risks of fires that call for close vigilance. The other risk that can be seen in the Council refers to the extraction of aggregates in the sea beaches of the parish of Nossa Senhora da Luz. This situation has caused the salinization of water and soil, having very negative consequences for agriculture and tourism.

Municipality of Santa Catarina

At the end of the 19th century, the municipality of Santa Catarina occupied the northern half of the island, while the southern half was the municipality of Praia.

10 HEALTHIER CITIES GOALS

CAPE VERDE AMBITION 2030

From the historical point of view, the municipality of Santa Catarina was created in 1600 by Bishop Vitorino Ortuense, and initially it consisted of two parishes: Santa Catarina and São Salvador do Mundo.

In 1834, a man called Manuel António Martins took office as governor of the Province of Cape Verde and intended to make the transfer of the seat of government of the city of Ribeira Grande (now Cidade Velha) to the Picos (Achada Igreja), in the parish of São Salvador do Mundo, which later came to give rise to the municipality of Santa Catarina.

This transfer of the seat of government to the Picos was not known to the Portuguese government. The initiative of this transfer was simply an option of the governor, thus contributing to the growth of infrastructures and to the development of the municipality of Santa Catarina and the interior of the island of Santiago. The municipality has a natural attraction (a favourable mountain climate) and had a rich soil and plenty of water. (VIEIRA, 1993, quoted by, TAVARES, 2009, p. 51)

Creation

The Municipality of Santa Catarina arose when the headquarters of the Municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago was transferred to the village of Picos (in the parish of São Salvador do Mundo) on 14 February 1834.

The seat of the municipality had several locations, such as: Picos (1884), Achada Falcão (1861), Mangue do Tarrafal (1869) and Assomada (1912).

In the various administrative divisions made on the island of Santiago, the municipality agglomerated parishes of Santa Catarina (known as Santa Catarina do Mato), São Salvador do Mundo, São João Baptista, São Miguel and Santo Amaro Abade.

Currently, it is composed of a parish of the same name, resulting from the various reordering at the end of the nineteenth century.

Geographical location

From a geographical point of view, the Municipality of Santa Catarina is a municipality on the island of Santiago, in the Eastern Cape Verde, with an area of 243 km² and 49,829 inhabitants. The county seat is the city of Assomada, which is 36 km north of the city of Praia, the country's capital.

The municipality of Santa Catarina is constituted by the parish of Santa Catarina. The parish of São Salvador do Mundo, which is since 2005 the municipality of the same name, was part of Santa Catarina until that date.

The municipality partially covers the Natural Parks of Serra Malagueta and Serra do Picos de Antónia. Serra Malagueta Park has an area of 774 ha and is located in the confluence of three municipalities: Santa Catarina (302 ha), São Miguel (436 ha) and Tarrafal (36 ha). (ANMCV 2017).

Population

According to INE in 2010, the municipality had a population of 43,454 inhabitants, 20324 male and 23130 female, and according to projections from the same source in 2017, the municipality had about 45922 inhabitants, 22092 male and 23829 female.

The age pyramid of Santa Catarina has a wide base and a narrow top, so the municipality's population can be characterized as young (59.6% are under 24 years old). Data from INE 2015.

In the age pyramid of Santa Catarina it can be seen that the base of the pyramid is already starting to narrow, which may be due to a decrease in the birth rate in the municipality, on the other hand, in the 10 to 24 years old age group the pyramid is already starting to widen due to the existence of a considerable number of young people;

In 2015, the municipality of Santa Catarina had about 11,223 households, mostly (6,132) represented by women, which shows some imbalance in the family structure of the municipality.

The main economic activities are agriculture (non-irrigated), livestock farming.

Besides the sectors considered potential, such as tourism, renewable energies and Information and Communication Technologies, the Council already has several types of economic activities capable of inducing the growth and development of the municipality of Santa Catarina.

Agriculture

Agriculture is a development tool of vital importance not only for economic growth but also for overcoming poverty and increasing food security.

Santa Catarina de Santiago, because it is a municipality located in the countryside, agricultural activity is one of the sectors of the local economy that employs the most people. Therefore, it is from the countryside that most families who live in the municipality and in other locations of the Archipelago such as the city of Praia, the capital of the country, come to support.

Lately with the growth of the tourism sector at a national level there has been a significant number of traders who have exported agricultural products to the tourist islands of Sal, Boavista and São Vicente. Therefore, the agricultural sector of the municipality has contributed not only to supplying the local market but also other municipalities and islands.

Nowadays with the emergence of new production technologies it is possible to see that some farmers have invested in the agricultural sector with the drip irrigation system using increasingly large parcels of land to produce.

On the other hand, after the creation of the dams in some islands of the country, there is a certain concern of the Ministry of Agriculture, the government body that coordinates the entire national agricultural sector, to inculcate in the minds of farmers the idea of entrepreneurial zing the sector, that is, organizing agricultural production to improve the quality of products and make them compete on an equal footing with imported products.

Livestock

Livestock farming, throughout the country, is an activity closely associated with agriculture practiced by family farms and, in the municipality of Santa Catarina is no different, what is interesting is the level of development of this activity in the municipality, which is at a higher stage than other municipalities in the country. It is through the livestock activity that the families are able to support themselves and also supply the local market.

Today it is also possible to see producers who invest in livestock farming to produce on a large scale and supply the national tourist market, especially chickens.

According to the 2015 General Agricultural Census (RGA) data, the Municipality of Santa Catarina is reconfirmed as the largest in the country in terms of livestock production. At that date, it had the largest number of cattle, goats and pigs. Pig farming occupied the top position, with the largest number of heads. It was followed by cattle and goats. Santa Catarina is still the main producer of beef and the largest supplier of meat nationwide. In this scenario, it is also important to mention that Assomada is the largest cattle market in the island of Santiago and the country.

Trade

In the municipalities of Santa Catarina, it is very well positioned in terms of trade, particularly the retail trade, which is more expressive in all the municipalities of the country. The figures indicate that Santa Catarina is in third place. Praia with 832, São Vicente, 785, Sal 25, and Santa Catarina 203.

Nowadays, an increasing number of citizens with professional and higher education level are entering the commerce sector, often starting with small business units operating in the economy informally. In a study on informal commerce in the municipality of Santa Catarina carried out by Vilma (2015), an interesting number of young people with higher education who practise informal commerce were found.

Another important finding of the same study was the fact that more than 50% said they were interested and willing to formalise their business. This is extremely important if we consider that after formalisation they will not only be subject to paying the daily fees to operate but will also contribute by paying taxes which will increase municipal revenues. These revenues can be converted into economic infrastructure ranging from the most conditions to the trade sector.

Analysing the INE's data, the result of the research on tourism supply in Cape Verde and by municipality, one can see that the municipality is far from being considered a tourist destination given the very insignificant number of tourist accommodations.

Santa Catarina in 2016 had only (1 hotel), (1 pension), (1 landing) and only (1 tourist residence) in operation. In short, the Council had only 4 accommodation establishments available.

This data explains the fact that the county does not have enough accommodation numbers to lodge tourists who visit the county in festive seasons, namely, the feast of the patron saint of the county Our Lady of Santa Catarina celebrated on November 25th and Our Lady of Fatima celebrated on May 13th, these feasts were held in two important points of the county.

Natural tourist attractions

Monte Afonso

This natural monument is located southeast of the municipality of Santa Catarina, at the entrance of the city of Assomada, over the Ribeira/Vale de Fonte Lima and Mato Limão. It is also an ancient volcanic cone, 656 metres high, with a reddish colour due to the actions of nature and man. Its longitudinal profile and steep slope constitute potential for climbing and mountaineering.

Monte Grande de Boa-Entrada

It is an outstanding relief in Santa Catarina, located east of the city of Assomada. It has about 704m of altitude, with the shape of a pyramid, when sighted in Nhagar. It radiates the streams of Boa-Entrada and Mato Limão, being the first green, contrasting with the purple on top of this mountain.

Pedra Branca Belvedere

Pedra Branca is a locality located in the area of Figueira das Naus, in the East area, 10km from the city of Assomada, parish and municipality of Santa Catarina.

Its altitude is 848m and on a course towards Tarrafal it is possible to contemplate mountain ranges, interspersed with several streams, which resemble the "Ribeira dos Dinossauros".

Monte Brianda

Located in the centre-west of Santa Catrina, over the terminal part of the Ribeira dos Engenhos (Ribeira de Águas Belas), it is an important attraction for contemplation for those who travel along the Ribeira de Águas Belas to the mouth, from the top of Achada Grande de Rincão or the Ribeirão Manuel area.

Rocha Fundino in Achada Leite

This is a cliff located on the coast of Santa Catarina to the northwest, more specifically in Achada Leite. It is easily accessible, either on foot or by car, from Tomba Touro and the Ribeira da Barca area, respectively.

Águas Belas Cave

It is located in the west of Santa Catarina, more specifically at the mouth of the Ribeira dos Engenhos, approximately 2km south of Achada Leite. This stream has an attractive panoramic view and is part of this natural landscape a cave / grotto with double opening, of different dimensions: the bigger side accesses the beach and the smaller one the ocean.

Charco Beach

It is located northwest of Santa Catarina in the contiguous bay of Ribeira da Barca. It is a small beach in a state of degradation due to the extraction of aggregates. However, it presents its singularity, due to the crystal clear water and no signs of pollution in sight.

Bay/Port of Rincão

It is located on the west coast of Santa Catarina. The harmony between land and sea, two elements whose shape gave it its name, marked by uniqueness.

Angra Bay

It is located north of the city of Assomada, more specifically in the area of Ribeira da Barca. It is a semi-circular bay and has a beach of fine black sand, clear and crystalline water, absent of any sign of pollution in sight, pleasant for leisure and recreation activities.

Cascata de Água Caída

This natural attraction is located northwest of the city of Assomada, approximately 16 km, in the area overlooking the Ribeira da Barca.

It is a place with high isoteric potential, if we admit that man has always looked for natural spaces, namely, where there is the presence of running water for contemplation and spiritual satisfaction.

Natural Park of Serra Malagueta.

It is a protected area, located between the municipalities of Santa Catarina, Tarrafal and S. Miguel on one of the highest points of the country (1064 metres of altitude). The mantle of eucalyptus and pine trees predominates, resulting from the various reforestation campaigns carried out there.

Poilon and Boa - Entrance Basin

It is one of the largest and oldest trees in Cape Verde, estimated to be about 900 years old, located in Ribeira de Boa-Entrada, east of Santa Catarina. Already in the 14th century, Portuguese navigators made reference to this monument in their writings

Saquinho Dam

The Saquinho dam is located north of the city of Assomada, in Ribeira de Tabugal. It is a recently inaugurated dam (2014), which has a certain amount of stored water, which has contributed to the alteration of the local landscape, the appearance of a mild microclimate and the presence of avifauna.

Ribeira de Tabugal

The area of Tabugal is between Águas Podres, Charquinho and Tabugal, constituting a sub-basin, with permanent water, which facilitates the continued practice of irrigated agriculture in a traditional way. The green landscape is dominant in the valley. Tabugal, for its natural conditions and socio-economic activities, was a privileged point of encounter, exchange and friendly relations.

Santa Catarina is a municipality that culture has always been present in various moments of its existence, manifesting itself in various forms, from music, theatre, tabanca, dance, handicraft, gastronomy and in various other cultural manifestations.

Santa Catarina is a municipality with great cultural richness and diversity. The habits and customs of its population are very evident in the traditional festivals, in the traditions of various production: pottery, basketry, matting, weaving; in its own agricultural tradition, especially in the manufacturing of "grog"; in its gastronomic attractions; in its historical past, illustrated by the revolts that took place in Ribeirão Manuel and Engenhos, among other cultural aspects. All of them are interesting attractions for the development of the cultural tourism market in the municipality.

The most important of all the traditional festivals is celebrated on November 25th and is dedicated to Santa Catarina, the patron saint of the municipality. The festival is hard in all corners of the county, but it is in the city of Assomada that has the highest notoriety. Many emigrants return then, bringing more brilliance to the celebrations.

Santa Catarina is a municipality with deep African traditions. From the groups of Batuque, to the deep Crioulo dialect, the frequent parades of Tabanca, and the traditional costumes still worn by many Santa-Catarinenses, nuances of the African continent can still be found in every corner of the county. If you want to have a real cultural experience, go to one of the many municipal festivals, spend an afternoon visiting a small village, or have dinner and spend the night in a rural house whose residents usually enjoy welcoming visitors for a modest price.

Material Cultural Attractions

Cruz de Picos Belvedere

This infrastructure is located right at the entrance to the city of Assomada, over the Fonte Lima valley, whose outstanding element is a large Cross, which marks the entrance to the city.

It has a circular shape exactly so that the visitor has a wide visual basin and panoramic view, allowing to contemplate the whole city of Assomada, Fonte Lima Valley, Ribeira dos Engenhos and the most prominent forms of relief of the city, and finally, the partial view of Fogo volcano.

The space is used by the residents, both in the morning and afternoon for physical activities, because its location allows the visitor to benefit from a mild temperature influenced by the breeze of the valley, but also by the marked effect of altitude on the decrease in temperature.

The city of Assomada and its Historical Centre

The city of Assomada is an urban centre that evolved from an old town (founded in 1912), located on a plateau approximately 500 metres high northwest of the island of Santiago, when the headquarters of the municipality of Santa Catarina de Tarrafal was transferred to this plateau.

The city of Assomada in its urban network has material and immaterial patrimonial elements, which makes this city an attraction par excellence.

Gustavo Monteiro Square

It has a rectangular shape and is located in the middle of the Historical Centre right in front of the building and on its side is the Nossa Senhora de Fátima Church, Youth Centre and Norberto Tavares Cultural Centre, both buildings with high patrimonial, historical and architectural values.

In this square are the decorative elements, such as two busts/stations of Amilcar Cabral and Fr. Luís Allaz, gardens, seats, which makes it an attraction with some symbolism and potential for leisure and recreation.

Bust of Father Louis Allaz and Amilcar Cabral

These are two monuments that bear witness to two prominent figures in the development of Santa Catarina and Cape Verde.

The symbolism they carry, both in the religious field and in the history of national liberation, values the cultural landscape of the square where they are located: Gustavo Monteiro Square.

For example, Father Louis Allaz is an important personality in the history of the Catholic Church in Cape Verde by contributing to the dynamisation of local Catholicism as well as to the education of young people in the municipality by founding a parish school, with an emphasis on the intellectual development of women.

The Bust of Amilcar Cabral represents the memory of an international historical personality, with strong symbolism and weight in Cape Verdean history, especially when associated with the history of the national liberation struggle.

Norberto Tavares Cultural Centre

It is an old farm building and post office, currently Norberto Tavares Cultural Centre, located in the heart of the historical centre, opposite Rua Gustavo Monteiro. It is well preserved and is a visiting point for nationals and foreigners.

Old Municipal Market

The Municipal Market of Assomada is a commercial space of ancient tradition, located in the extension of the street that passes in front of the Norberto Tavares Cultural Museum, called Avenida Gustavo Monteiro.

It is one of the oldest markets in the city, inaugurated in 1931, after the dismantling of another even older one in the locality of Cutelo, where the current municipal butcher works. Today it is a commercial area, where you can find agricultural varieties, witnessing the potential of the municipality for agriculture.

New Municipal Market

Located in the area of Achada Riba, outside the historical area of the city was inaugurated recently, after 2010. It has modern architectural features, functioning as a multipurpose space.

City Hall Buildings

Situated in the historic centre of the city of Assomada, in front of Gustavo Monteiro Square. The building is unique for its architecture and harmonizes with the others in its surroundings: old Escola Grande à Sul, Infirmary and Nossa S. Fátima Church to the West, Norberto Tavares Museum to the East.

Formerly Escola Grande, now Municipal Library

Located in the historic centre of the city, it is an architectural heritage, with markedly colonial features, and at the back you can see the edges covering the two balconies and access stairs.

Former Infirmary, now Health Centre

It is a building with patrimonial value, located in the historical centre of the city, built before the National Independence (1948), by Governor João de Figueiredo for Regional Infirmary and, nowadays, it performs the health functions. What makes it most attractive is its colonial architectural design and its harmony with other elements of the city's historical landscape.

Lubrano House

Located in the heart of the historic centre is a building with several large doors at the front, typical of houses used for commercial activities in the past.

Today, the building houses commerce, despite its patrimonial value and its strategic location are important aspects.

"Quintalona", now the Tabanca Museum

It is located in the valley of Chã de Tanque, west of the city of Assomada, approximately 5 km away. The building is in a good state of conservation, it is visited by nationals and foreigners, because it is crossed by the municipal road that connects the city of Assomada to the village of Rincão.

What most attracts visitors to the building is its "grandiosity" and the traces of its architecture from the time it was built, which is different from modern ones.

House of Amilcar Cabral's parents

Located in the area of Achada Falcão, a little north of the city of Assomada. It is a unique building, both for its colonial architecture and for its historical value, associated with the memory of the leader of national liberation who spent part of his childhood there.

Nhô Germano's big house

This building is located in the north of the city of Assomada, more specifically in Achada Falcão, in front of the Nha Santa Catarina Church.

The name "Casa Grande" is always associated with the former wealthy agricultural owners in Santa Catarina, whose possession of large tracts of land constitutes an identity status, so this house is not exempt either.

Its architectural features typical of colonial times are unique in its surroundings, where there are modern constructions, so it is there that its tourist value lies, which can be complemented with the knowledge of the history of the relatives to which they belonged.

Casa Grande in Telhal dos Engenhos (House nhô Ruba)

It is located in Engenhos, west of the city of Assomada, one of the most fertile valleys of the municipality.

This building is one of the oldest in the municipality of Santa Catarina. Like the other manor houses spread throughout the rural world in the municipality, what marks this building is also its grandiosity and architectural features typically colonial, in a valley whose dwellings are daily modernized as a reflection of much emigration.

Casa Grande de Luísa, now Cruz Grande Youth Space

It is an old residence of one of the richest owners in the area of Achada Falcão, located in Cruz Grande, north of the city of Assomada.

According to information, during the old Revolts in Ribeirão Manuel this space served as a prison for those who had participated.

This building is one of the rural heritage par excellence, as it preserves the traces of Portuguese architecture, as well as the memory of the old "Big Houses" in the overseas territory.

Church of Nossa Senhora de Fátima

This religious monument is located in the heart of the historical centre of the city of Assomada and has in front of it the Town Hall building and the Gustavo Monteiro Square. It is an old colonial building that was built between 1947 and 1949 and was inaugurated in the latter.

Its architectural features are striking, and looking at its current physiognomy from above, the two towers stand out above all, one at the front, or the other at the back.

Church of Nha Santa Catarina

It is a religious monument located in Cruz de Cima, at the head of the Ribeira de Boa-Entrada, and can be reached on foot or by car. It has architectural features from the colonial era, built in the 19th century.

Data shows that it was the first parish located in the county and there is celebrated Nha Santa Catarina on November 25, patron saint of the county.

Its architecture and the commemoration of the patron saint are attractions that motivate national and international visitors, thus a potential for cultural and religious tourism.

Chapel of Santa Terezinha

It is a religious heritage located northwest of the city of Assomada, more specifically in Ribeirão Manuel.

The building presents the traces of a simple and modern architecture, if compared with the other religious establishments in the municipality. In this space is celebrated the feast of Santa Terezinha, on the 1st of October.

It stands out for its location, as it is next to the attractive two singular elements, where one can observe: a memorial symbolizing the "Rubom Manel's Revolt" that took place in October 1910, and the majestic Mount Brianda, which symbolizes the city's defence.

Chapel of Santa Ana

A religious monument of simple architectural features, located in Achada Lém a few metres from the National Road of the first class (EN1), which connects the municipality to the north of Santiago Island.

Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Lurdes

It is a religious monument of simple architectural features located northeast of Santa Catarina, in Figueira das Naus. It is easily accessible and in good condition.

It celebrates Our Lady of Lourdes on 11 February, a Mass celebrated by the Bishop of the Diocese of Santiago, a native of the area, currently promoted to the position of Cardinal by the Holy See.

Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça

Located in the valley of Chã de Tanque, west of the city of Assomada is a religious monument of small physical dimension, of easy access, with a unique architecture, but with great spiritual dimension to associate with the religious symbolism of the Saint associated: Our Lady of Grace.

Chapel of Santo André

It is a historical heritage of religious character, located southwest of the city of Assomada, in the valley of Engenhos. It is an old building, well preserved and with characteristics of the other chapels of the time.

Its uniqueness is associated with religious symbolism: the commemoration of Saint Andrew on 30 November, marked by mass and other religious activities.

Ribeirão Manuel Revolt Monument

It is a cultural monument located north of Assomada, in Ribeirão Manuel, west of Achada Falcão.

The monument is a memory trail, i.e. it was erected in honour of the tenants who refused to pay rent on the land, which led to some riots with the authorities of the time. Thus, it is a symbol of the resistance of the tenants and slaves that took place in 1910.

Handicraft, Production and Exhibition Centres

The arts have always aroused the interest of individuals, whether national or international, depending mainly on their cultural perception.

The productive processes, the extraction and raw materials and the resulting objects in goods add up to become tourist resources by the attractive power they trigger.

Pottery from Fonte Lima and Achada Galego

This activity takes place in Fonte Lima, a valley to the west of the city of Assomada and the Achada Galego area, respectively. It is an ancient art in the municipality, in which they produce several objects: Bindes, pots, vases, among others.

13 de Janeiro Square

It is located outside the historic centre of Assomada, specifically next to the post office and the Intermunicipal Technical Office, in the Pobretãozinho area, where it was built between the 1990s and 2000.

The name "13 January Square" has some historical significance for the country if it is associated with Freedom Day (13 January), hence an attraction with a historical-cultural value.

Achada Riba Children's Park

This leisure equipment is located just a few metres from the historic centre, near Cálu and Ângela shopping centre, the largest in Assomada.

Shopping Centre Cálu and Ângela

Located in the area of Achada Riba, next to the condominiums - Casas para Todos. It is a building of modern architecture, with two floors, and in the lower part houses a mini-market and an upper part an electrical appliance shop and a gymnasium.

Nhagar Multisports Hall

It is a collective urban equipment, located a few meters from the city centre, in the locality of Nhagar

Immaterial cultural attractions

The Batuque

Batuque - is a complex performance genre involving percussion, poetry, singing and dance. The repertoire consists of Creole songs accompanied by polyrhythmic percussion performed with the hands on an idiophone formed by a small pillow or curled cloth called "tchabeta", danced vigorously and virtuously (lathe) by one or more dancers and less frequently by dancers. The Batuque is typical of the island of Santiago and even today its presence is reduced to this island. It is a genre that manifests the African presence, and portrays social coexistence.

Tabanca

It is a form of cultural expression practiced on the islands of Santiago and Maio and reflects the origin of our Cape Verdeanity - the blending of European and African cultures.

In the celebration of tabanca there are several rituals which are respected such as the chapel which is a very important space for any group of tabanca, where the "sacred" ceremonies are held, namely the Toki de salva, the theft of the saint and sometimes interrogation of the thieves, important moments in the festivity of tabanca.

The "Toki de salva" is the moment when the communication with the patron saint of the group is made, through the cadenced beats on the drums, the ceremonial of the "sacred" sticks and the prayer (sung prayer), etc. This is the moment when worship is rendered and divine protection is asked for. The whole sequence gives the idea of a true African ritual, but in reality it is a "staging" of the rosary with figurations: the drum beats correspond to Hail Marys and Glories.

Before the ritual of kisses, it is customary to pray Our Fathers of offering to the patron saint. In addition to the festive period, the salvage is done when a captive of Tabanca dies, which takes place on the seventh day after the burial".

The theft of the saint is carried out by Tabanca thieves, although the saint is usually under the surveillance of the guards at court. There is a kind of staging between those who watch and those who steal the Saint. The Saint, represented by a white flag with a red cross in the centre and a marmeleiro stick with a red ribbon tied at one end, is sold at the house of the Queen of the coat or the King of the flag.

As a rule, the latter keep the Saint's purchase for seven consecutive years. This act triggers a series of actions and animations that give continuity to the festivities. In times when Tabanca is not celebrated, all the objects that are part of the procession are kept in the chapel, except for the clothes that remain in the care of the person who wears them. Tabanca groups have, as a general rule, some savings, namely land they cultivate, corn, beans and other stored products.

Funaná

Funaná is a musical genre, it emerged in the rural environment that initially only covered the island of Santiago. This style was formerly played with instruments such as harmonica and iron, thus animating popular and religious festivals. It has a faster rhythm than the coladeira.

It is a genre very close to the African continent that appeared thanks to the accordion introduced in the country by the Portuguese for accompaniment in masses and later appropriated by the inhabitants of this island for their songs. The funaná is danced with its own rhythm and connected to the musical rhythm.

The Theatre

Theatre is a term of Greek origin that simultaneously designates a set of plays for public performance where the art of acting is used by one or several actors who present a certain story that arouses varied feelings in the audience. This way of manifesting in Cape Verde is represented according to its socio-economic reality.

Pilgrimage and Folklore Parties

The municipality of Santa Catarina strongly preserves the traditions of Cape Verdean culture and of the island of Santiago in particular.

These traditions manifest themselves in various ways, such as: music, dance, gastronomy, clothing and pilgrimage and folklore parties. The last two festivals are highlighted: Festa de Nhâ Santa Catarina (25 November); Festa de Nossa Senhora de Fátima (13 May); Festa da Tabanca (early May to late June).

The first is a religious feast celebrated on 25 November throughout the municipality whose patron saint is Saint Catherine, despite the space of worship is in the church of the same name, located in Cruz de Cima, at the head of the Ribeira da Boa-Entrada.

With a smaller spatial scope, but almost in the same mould (sacred and profane), we have the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, celebrated on May 13th, centred mainly in the city.

The church of Our Lady of Fatima is the stage where all the religious rituals take place, ending with the profane side in the city and its surroundings (Gil Bispo, Achada Galego, Furna and João Dias).

http://cmssm.cv/index.php/pt/

Santa Catarina, integrated in the development of the country, followed the guidelines and compliance with the provisions that guide the development of environmental protection. In reference, the Municipal Environmental Plan I and II (PAM 1 and 2), the Municipal Master Plan and Studies of Urban Waste as well as the study of the Serra Malagueta Natural Park, are documents of excellence and environmental protection policy in the municipality.

Municipality of São Salvador do Mundo

São Salvador do Mundo is a municipality on the island of Santiago in Cape Verde. The headquarters is the town of Picos. It consists of only one parish, with the same name.

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Since 1834, the municipality of S. Salvador has been part of the municipality of Santa Catarina following the transfer of the seat of the city of Ribeira Grande de Santiago to Santa Catarina. Picos had since early some identities and memories as: the existence of Morgados and Rendeiros and the runaway slaves.

Some studies point out that it was to San Salvador do Mundo that Bishop Don Francisco sent the pastoral letter for the defence of Ribeira Grande in the possession of the pirate Jacques Cassard (Inventory of tourist resources).

Creation

It was created in 2005, when a parish of the former Council of Santa Catarina was separated to form the Council of São Salvador do Mundo. On 18 May 2008 the first municipal leaders, João Baptista Pereira and Pedro Brito were elected as mayor and assembly respectively.

Geographical location

The municipality of S. Salvador do Mundo is located in the centre of the island of Santiago and borders the municipalities of Santra Catarina (northwest), Santa Cruz (northeast), to the south and southwest with S. Lourenço dos Órgãos and Ribeira Grande de Santiago.

São Salvador do Mundo, even with its autonomy continued to locate the administrative headquarters in Achada Igreja, distancing in absolute terms from Praia and Assomada 32 Km and 4Km, respectively. It has an area of 30 km², distributed over 19 villages. (Inventory of tourist resources).

Population

São Salvador do Mundo has 8,641 inhabitants, distributed in 18 villages, IMC (2016). With 30 km2 of municipal territory, its population density is 288 inhabitants/km2. Between 2000 and 2016 the municipality had a decrease of 531 inhabitants.

The municipality has a young workforce at its disposal. The average age of the population of San Salvador has been around 27.48 years between 2012 and 2016, which is equivalent to the national average (27.87 years), (INE, 2016).

The economic activity of San Salvador do Mundo is fundamentally based on the traditional sector of agriculture, with emphasis on dry farming, livestock farming and the trade in handicrafts.

The dynamic of the development of the municipality is essentially based on investment and modernisation in the agricultural sector, not discouraging rural and/or ecological tourism.

Of the companies in São Salvador do Mundo, those linked to the retail trade stand out most. However, the active population of the municipality is mainly occupied in the primary sector and the tertiary sector, with assets linked to the secondary sector practically non-existent.

Agriculture

São Salvador do Mundo is an essentially agricultural municipality and has great potential in this sector. The various valleys and slopes that make up the Picos Basin and a climate conducive to the practice of various crops, make São Salvador do Mundo one of the places in Santiago with the greatest agricultural potential at the level of the island and the country, representing a significant weight at national level.

The most practised agriculture is dry farming, with maize and beans being the predominant crops conditioned mainly by the amount of rainfall, in dry farming, yields are low and productions are quite random.

It is estimated that nearly 95% of the world's agricultural land is non-irrigated and only 4% is irrigated, of which 4% is permanent versus 1% temporary.

Livestock

Livestock farming, like agriculture, represents an important component of Salvadoran families' income and livelihood.

Livestock farming is carried out in all localities in the municipality, including the town of Achada Igreja and the town of Achada Leitão (urban areas of the municipality), especially in the town of Picos Acima, where livestock farming is most prevalent.

Industry

Industrial activity has no expression in this municipality, being the only ones in existence for several years linked to iron foundry and production of brandy.

The tertiary sector will have the secondary sector as its driving force. As it is little developed, the tertiary sector has less weight, summarising the retail and informal sector practised in some establishments, the majority being located in the Achada Igreja area.

Despite encountering some tourist potential in the Municipality of São Salvador do Mundo, this economic activity is practically non-existent in the Municipality, being limited to three restaurants frequented, mainly by local agents and from time to time, by a small group of tourists who have visited the Municipality with relative frequency.

Natural Attractions

Mount Pico de Antonia

It is a mountainous massif located west of the municipality of São Salvador do Mundo (SSM), more specifically between Ribeira de Leitãozinho and Ribeira de Faveta. One of its peculiarities is that it is the highest point on the island of Santiago (1394 metres) and the third at a national level, as well as its magnificence over the two great streams (Picos and Órgãos), above all because it bears witness to the existence of a large volcanic apparatus which was once at the origin of the island's formation. On the other hand, its magnificence also gives the sensation of a natural monument as a guardian of the municipality, therefore a visiting card of this territory.

Its richness in geodiversity and biodiversity (animals and plants) makes it an attraction with scientific value, i.e. it can serve as a natural laboratory for understanding one of the stages in the formation of the island of Santiago, as well as the hydrographic networks.

Around it there are myths and symbolisms. For example, it is associated with the figure of "Adam and Eve" standing up, two figures in divine moral history, the two stones on needles in front of each other. The elderly see him as a "lunarian" of good the bad agricultural year, that is to say, if his top is covered with clouds in July the year will be good, if it is the other way around it will be bad. It is said to be a water volcano, and finally it is called "Piku D'antoni" because it is the first mountain discovered by António da Noli, one of the discoverers of Cape Verde.

Mount Gulilância

It is a natural monument, located in Manhanga, east of the city of Achada Igreja. It is an emblematic geological formation, of basalt stones whose shape is due to the action of nature, with a wide base and narrow top.

This monument is emblematic, so it is more of a calling card to the municipality, as its shape looks like "a man on horseback" who was compared to the statue of Marquês de Pombal in Lisbon.

Its state of conservation is good and access is relatively easy. Due to its geomorphological, scenic and landscape richness, it serves as Habitat of some endemic species (marmulano), making this monument natural and protected.

“Frado" Mountain

This geological monument is located west of the town of Achada Igreja, in the Picos Acima area, and is relatively easy to reach, as it can be reached by taking the penetration road that links the town of Assomada to the Picos Acima area, passing the Junco.

Along this route you have the opportunity to appreciate its altitude and openness at its top which can be called the "door to the sky". Being close by, you have a panoramic view over most of the eastern part of the municipality, whose prominence goes to the imposing Mount Gulilância and Pico de António.

Rocha Pomba de Sansão

An emblematic natural monument, located in the area of Leitão Grande, more specifically in Sansão, west of Achada Igreja. Given its landscape beauty and the function of natural habitat for some birds, namely pigeons, the Town Hall has taken this space as a natural monument.

Being in the area of Babosa, near the Quinta "Vovó Joana", where you can see it from the front, it looks like a "pigeon" at the bottom of the stream quenching its thirst for water".

Ribeira de Laranjeira

A stream whose headwaters begin at the foot of the Pico Antonia Massif and extend to the Quebrada area.

Being in Leitão Grande you have a panoramic view of the whole Historical Centre of Achada Church up to the Cutelo de Jalalo Ramos "Alto Soca".

As a singularity, there is a green landscape that covers this stream as the valley of Leitão with the luxuriant plantation of Bananeira, Mangueira, Cana de Açúcar and other fruit trees. It is there that you will have the opportunity to appreciate one of the endemic species, the Dragueiro, which used to be used in dyeing and changing the colour of the brandy.

It is also in this Ribeira, specifically in "Txã de Pinha" and Várzea that you will find two houses of the morgados, with architectural traces of colonial times, some in a good state of conservation, which with a simple rehabilitation, can be transformed into country houses".

In its upstream part, also green, there is the production of various brandies and vegetables, with highlights for vegetables and fruits, thanks to the resurgence at the foot of the Pico de Antonia Massif. The endemic species are part of this landscape, especially Lingua de Vaca and Tortolho.

Poilão de Leitãozinho

An emblematic biological monument, located southwest of the city of Achada Igreja, in the area of Leitãozinho and, is an endemic species of Cape Verde.

Its uniqueness is due to its protuberance (height, physiognomy of the change and of the crown), standing out in the area and in the municipality at the level of the tree cover. It is an identifying element of the area, hence the locality where it is located called "Polón".

Material Attractions

The City of Achada Igreja

The city of Achada Igreja is a small urban centre, situated in the interior of the island of Santiago, in São Salvador do Mundo, on a plateau. This town, now with the status of a city, evolved from a simple village, previously inhabited by some agricultural owners and administrators of the colony, when the headquarters of Ribeira Grande Santiago was transferred to the municipality of Santa Catarina in 1834.

The city has a historical centre where all its dynamics converge and where the historical buildings are located, configuring a landscape with simple architectural features from colonial times, marking and witnessing the influence of Portuguese culture.

It houses a beautiful church and several historical buildings, with emphasis on the Sobrado de Nhô Joaquim Correia, Old Big School that currently houses the function of Health Centre, Case of Nhô Orlando Brito and an old market.

City of Achada Church and its Historical Center

In the historical centre and its surroundings, during the course of its rehabilitation and the provision of collective social facilities, modern landscaping works with some harmony, a modern and contemporary history, have emerged:

Cruz de Portal Square

A leisure equipment located right at the entrance of the city, in the area of the same name. Facing the main public thoroughfare, it has modern features, seats, and a brewery. Its position is strategic, as long as it is well promoted and has entertainment activities it can retain visitors to the city or those who pass by there. Unfortunately it is not in operation that takes away its social and leisure function.

Multisports and Fitness Parks of Achada Igreja

An emblematic leisure facility, located in Achada Igreja, in the town of Penedos. There, in addition to hosting sporting events, it is an ideal place to hold the old joint dance, whether as part of the commemoration of the Holy Patron Saint - São Salvador do Mundo - or at municipal festivals.

This equipment, outside, has a fitness park, the ideal place for outdoor physical exercise.

Achada Igreja Digital Square

Located in the heart of the historic centre, it is an emblematic social facility. Rehabilitated in recent times, it has received some new elements, such as a correct one, in which on the upper floor it can serve as space for musical performances, theatre, prize giving and on the lower floor it has a bar service.

With modern features, there you can access the Internet, which is why the same name has been given. It has a rectangular shape and is located near the main church. The great singularity goes to its landscaping, that is, it consists of simple benches, but the highlight goes to a large tree - the eucalyptus - in its centre that offers comfort due to the projected shade and freshness it preserves.

Praceta de Cacheu

This equipment is located in the town of Cachéu, the main street terminal of the city. It is a circular shaped square, built in 2007, with seats and a centralized bush. Its construction may be one of the goals of the municipal landscape policy, thus giving the Cachéu area a landscape with specific characteristics for rest, but it is a tribute to a natural, teacher and politician: Carlos Alberto. Being there, the visitor will have the opportunity to contemplate the natural monument, Monte Gulilância much more closely, as well as a manor house with well preserved Portuguese architectural features. It is an ideal space to rest, after a walk in the city streets.

Fitness Park of Achada Leitão

It is a leisure facility located southeast of Achada Igreja, just at the entrance of Achada Leitão. It fits in the types of collective social equipments, which are usually called neighborhood parks, destined to create spaces for passive leisure (rest, contemplation area) and active (recreation and physical exercise in the open air), which serves the local community and visitors.

Achada Leitão Square: Capela Square and its surroundings

It is another work in the municipal landscape policy, located in Achada Leitão, an expansion area of the city of Achada Igreja. Unlike the other squares already analysed, it has, besides a rest area and bar service, a roof/shade, which can give more comfort to the users on sunny days.

Faveta Dam

This technical work is located southeast of Achada Igreja, in the Faveta area. It is the result of various actions carried out by the government for the reordering of the Picos watershed. Its grandiosity and the volume of water it stores creates an attractive landscape par excellence, which once looked purple, today is green thanks to the water that has increased the local humidity, therefore a greater growth of vegetation.

It highlights the alteration of the faunal landscape (presence of white herons, who chose this space for nocturnal nesting) of the microclimate has become cool, all resulting from the location of this work. These aspects add up to make it a major attraction for the implementation of rural tourism, agrotourism segment.

Quinta Vovó Joana

It is an old manor house southwest of Achada Igreja, in the Babosa area. Its architectural features are markedly Portuguese and the entire agricultural perimeter around it are aspects that make it a unique cultural heritage.

Being in this space, one has a panoramic view of a large part of the Ribeira de Laranjeira, highlighting the waterfall and green valley of Leitões.

Former residence of Quinquim Ribeiro and Orlando de Brito

Situated on the outskirts of a found church, these houses belonged to the large owners, and have their markedly Portuguese architectural features.

Festivities of Romarias and Folklore

The pilgrimage festivals in the municipality have a relatively low weight, with more emphasis on the feast of Nhô Lord of the World, between the months of April and May (15 days after Easter) and is celebrated in every corner of the municipality. It has already become a practical realization of the BTT festival, which brings together musical groups and personalities. On the sacred side there is the traditional mass and procession in the main street of the municipality, with the tradition of a judge of the faithful who comes to fulfil promises. It can also be marked by the singularity linked to the gastronomy, the handicraft, and mainly the manufacture of the "pano di terra", basketry and brandy. All these activities enliven the days of festivities which make it a major cultural attraction.

Gastronomy

A municipality where its people work, mainly in agriculture, producing the means of survival, the gastronomy, either for the townspeople or for visitors, will be the basis of these "raw materials" coming from there.

It is a municipality where cattle breeding is predominant, with cattle and goats playing an important role. Thus, the municipal gastronomy for the days of celebration is based on a mixture of maize and its derivatives, and beans. It is in this municipality that maize derivatives, "the famous porridge and couscous", are most commercialized, which is combined with milk from cattle and goats, keeping the tradition of Terra.

Beans mixed with pork are also a characteristic gastronomic feature of the municipality, especially in the celebration of pilgrimage parties, weddings, baptisms.

Cape Verde is an island country characterized by volcanic orography and soils degraded by climate actions, erosion and agricultural practices. In fact, only one tenth of the archipelago's surface is arable.

There is a strong demographic pressure on the few existing resources such as arable land and water, thus causing over-exploitation of arable land, plant and animal biodiversity species.

These factors of structural vulnerability, faced by the country, namely insularity and orography, repeated chronic droughts, lack of water and fragility of ecosystems, seriously affect its development.

https://www.cmscz.cv/

Municipality of Santa Cuz

The municipality of Santa Cruz is located on the island of Santiago, in the group of Sotavento, in Cape Verde and has 26,609 inhabitants, according to data from INE for 2010.

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The then Town of Pedra Badejo, seat of the Municipality, now a City, situated on the Island of Santiago, more specifically in the Municipality of Santa Cruz, was born as the result of a progressive process of fixing people spontaneously, attracted by the sea and fertile valleys for agriculture. Thus, the construction of the first houses began, which later became the result of activities such as fishing, small commerce, agriculture and the dynamics developed so far.

Its urbanization began in 1984 with the arrival of the Austrian technicians who started the rehabilitation of the triangle area (Largo da Igreja Católica de Pedra Badejo) and Cutelinho, which would give rise to the first cadastre plan of the interior of Santiago, and much cherished participative sanitation experience brought by the rehabilitation of the Brazilian favelas changing the living and socio-economic conditions of the residents.

Creation

The Municipality of Santa Cruz was created by Decree-Law No. 108/71 of 29 March, Santa Cruz where it began to gain its autonomy, with the town of Pedra Badejo rising to the category of Vila, in order to promote the development of activities that population growth imposed and enable people to have rapid contact with the headquarters of the municipality (Headquarters in the town of Pedra Badejo) where their problems can be solved.

In 2010 it was elevated to the category of City in light of Article 9 of Law No. 77/VII/2010 of 23 August and published in BO No. 32, Series I).

Geographic location

The municipality of Santa Cruz is located in the eastern part of Santiago Island. It has an area of 109.8Km2, corresponding to 11.75% of the total area of the island. It is confronted, to the North, with the Municipality of S. Miguel, to the West with the Municipalities of Santa Catarina and Picos, to the Southwest with the Municipality of S. Lourenço and to the South with the Municipality of S. Domingos. It closes its border by the maritime edge in the east zone.

The municipality of Santa Cruz is subdivided in three administrative zones: North, Centre and South. In each Administrative Zone there is a head office - Municipal Delegation installed - to bring the services of the Municipality closer to the local communities, thus allowing them to feel better served.

Population

According to the 2010 Census, the municipality of Santa Cruz has about 26,617 inhabitants, which corresponds to 9.7% of the population of Santiago Island (with 274,044 inhabitants) and 5.4% of the national whole, which currently has about 491. 875 inhabitants. Of these 26,617, 12,863 are male, corresponding to 48.3%, and 13,754 are female, corresponding to 51.7%. According to the area of residence, about 9,345 people live in urban areas (35.1%) and 17,246 live in rural areas (64.9%).

The average annual growth rate (TCMA %) of the population of the municipality is 0.5 %, below the national average of 1.23 %. The most populated areas are: The City of Pedra Badejo and the localities of Achada Fazenda and Cancelo. In relation to the size of the household it is 4.6, slightly above the national average which is 4.2. It should also be noted that among household heads 42.4% are male and 57.6% are female.

Santa Cruz has its main economic activity in the primary sector. In fact, agriculture and livestock as well as fishing, particularly in the city of Pedra Badejo, are the main absorbers of labour and producers of municipal wealth.

Gradually the tertiary sector, particularly services and hotels and tourism, is beginning to gain a new dynamic of development, along with the commerce sector.

The secondary sector, the extractive, mining and processing industries are not very significant. However, the carpentry and carpentry sector has some presence in the city of Pedra Badejo.

Agriculture

In the agricultural sector there have been important investments in recent years in the modernisation of the irrigation system, with the introduction of drip irrigation, hydroponics and rainwater retention and distribution systems (dams, cisterns and water pipes). In addition to these investments, vocational training in the agricultural sector is particularly important, especially for young people in the municipality.

Both irrigated and non-irrigated agriculture is practised. Non-irrigated farming is practised in the upstream areas of the municipality, while temporary and permanent irrigation farming is practised in the downstream areas of the rivers, deep valleys and coastal areas.

The municipality has one of the largest irrigated areas in the country, traditionally occupying horticultural areas. Santa Cruz stands out for having one of the largest banana plantations in the country, now in the hands of the Justino Lopes Agricultural Workers' Association (Aguada and Monte Negro areas).

In a dry regime, corn, beans and tubers are essentially grown. Irrigated agriculture is practised with greater expression in the main hydrographic basins of the municipality (Ribeira Seca and Ribeira dos Picos). In irrigation, vegetables, fruit trees, roots and tubers are mainly cultivated.

Livestock

The livestock sector (cattle farming) is a complementary activity to agriculture and has had great importance in the economy of Santa Cruz, it is impossible to talk about agriculture without talking about livestock. The two sectors are interconnected, not only because of their complementarity, but also because of the need to consume meat, eggs and other proteins. A large percentage of the existing livestock is of the family type.

It is important to mention the introduction of improved breeds and the organisation of breeders into co-operatives in order to contribute to the stimulation of the local and national economy.

Industry

The industry is incipient, and as in most of the national territory, it is of small size, and there are some units of craft, or carpentry, locksmithing and mechanics, and transformation of materials for the housing construction sector.

Commerce

Historically, trade in the municipality was nothing more than fairs on certain days where fairgrounds and people met to buy and sell products. The manual products had a great emphasis on the market, such as the carrion or rope balloons, banana leaf slat mats, etc. In the same space, families took advantage of the opportunity to exhibit and sell small quantities of domestic livestock products. In the same way, agricultural products were sold through this type of trade.

The second aspect refers to the emergence of mini-markets in the municipality competing competitively with other informal trade practices. It is a type of formal market that is gaining ground with a guarantee of higher quality. According to the survey carried out in the administrative areas, some are located in the main urban centres, with areas with two or three on average. This second salient aspect brings great advantages to the Council in that quantity and quality are guaranteed.

Fishing

Artisanal fishing represents the livelihood of many families on the outskirts of the village of Pedra Badejo, namely Achada Ponta, Monte Negro, Baía Curta, Areia Branca and Achada Laja. In these communities, the economic activities of fishing and agriculture have been practised in parallel. Due to the low catches in these locations, many of the fishermen mainly from Achada Ponta and Pedra Badejo migrate to the islands of Boavista and Maio where there is a greater fishing potential.

Santa Cruz presents natural conditions that can be enhanced for the development of the County, namely, the exotic landscapes, its cultural richness, the gastronomy, the sea, the music: funaná, batuque, finason and tabanka.

Natural tourist attractions

The natural resources of the municipality of Santa Cruz are clearly visible along the main road, displaying a great diversity of anthropic and contrasting landscapes. The flora and fauna of the municipalities of Santiago do not vary much, but each one has its inherent characteristics and in the municipality in question we can highlight the fishing eagle (Pandion haliaetus), the Swift (Apus alexandri), the sea turtle (Caretta caretta), the Gestiba (Sarcostemma daltonii) and the Cocos nucifera (Cocos nucifera)

Monte Vigia

It is located on the north side of the city of Pedra Badejo, in the town of Achada Fátima. It is a hill of easy access and much visited due to the wide view over the whole city of Pedra Badejo and its surroundings that can be reached at the top of the iron cross with 26 meters high.

Monte Bidela and Monte da Cruz

The first is located at the southern end of the municipality while the second between the villages of Achada Laje and Covão Sanches, and both have a high interest in landscape and geology, so the City Council in its PDM proposes that they be included in the National Network of Protected Areas (RNAP) as natural monuments. They are accessed by trails normally used by shepherds.

Pedra Badejo

It is on a plateau on the east coast of the island of Santiago, the seat of the municipality of Santa Cruz and the 3rd largest town in terms of the number of inhabitants on the island. It rose to the category of village on July 2, 1973 and in 2010 the city.

Achada Igreja

Once upon a time, there existed the first Mother Church of the municipality in consecration to the local patron saint - "Nhu Santiago Maior". Today, only traces of this religious and cultural icon remain of the façade of the church, surrounded by some graves which indicate the existence of a cemetery.

In addition to the ruins already mentioned, one can visit the two natural lagoons, Lagoa and Lagoinha, which exist on the edge of the black sand beach and the beach itself.

Cancelo

Located in the northern part of the municipality, its historic centre is of interest for visits where one can observe the local way of life and buildings of traditional architecture. It presents potential both for the development of agro-tourism on the property known as "Justino Lopes", once a major food producer that supplied the entire island; and for bathing tourism on the coconut beach.

Porto Madeira

Located in the extreme south of the municipality, it has an access road from the main road of the municipality, before reaching the town of Renque Purga in the direction of Praia - Santa Cruz.

Ribeira Seca

It is the largest stream in the municipality and, despite the name it is very green, it presents an anthropic landscape with irrigated and dry crops, where they have already introduced the drip irrigation system for greater profitability of the land and the use of water from the Poilão dam.

Ribeira de Cumba

From the area of Achada Ponta you can enjoy the thriving landscape of this stream that is one of the most spectacular slopes in the municipality of Santa Cruz, where you can observe some species of local fauna and flora, highlighting small groups of monkeys.

Ribeira dos Picos

From the top of João Toro, you can enjoy a privileged view of the vast and green Ribeira dos Picos, with coconut and banana trees standing out in the landscape.

It is an easily accessible stream and due to its location and environmental characteristics, it has a wide range of endemic birds and plants that constitute its strong tourist attraction.

Lagoa e Lagoínha

In some of the mouths of the streams, a few storm puddles are formed by dragging rainwater which is concentrated in front of pebble and sand bars, with characteristic vegetation and a peculiar bird life.

In the municipality of Santa Cruz there are two ponds, Lagoa and Lagoínha, located on the outskirts of Achada Igreja, both of which are easily accessible from this location, at the mouth of Ribeira dos Picos and Ribeira Seca respectively.

Areia Grande Beach

It is the largest beach in the municipality, over 3 kilometres long, where every year the famous Areia Grande music festival is held, as well as other cultural and sporting activities. Located near the main road of the municipality, it is in a good state of conservation, but needs more intervention mainly in sanitation.

Porto Fundo Beach

Located behind Monte Vigia, at Ponta de Santa Cruz, it is a beautiful bay with calm waters that offers a beautiful natural landscape to the visitor.

Mangue Beach

Located at the mouth of the Ribeira de Mangue, it is a beach with some difficulty of access due to the road conditions.

It represents one of the traditional points of turtle spawning of the species Caretta caretta on the east coast of the island, which makes it interesting for scientific studies and observation of this and other species that frequent it, but also much sought after by people from other counties for their weekend programmes. There you will find the remains of a boat stranded many years ago named Agrillia, from Panama.

Coqueiro Beach

It is located near Cancelo, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Santa Cruz and resembles a lunar landscape with small volcanic craters.

Coqueiro Coast to Ponta Ribeira Lage

Located between the towns of Cancelo, Covão Sanches and Achada Lage, it is an extensive coastal area with high landscape value and strong scientific interests due to the fauna and flora of this type of landscape, therefore the local PDM proposes its inclusion in the RNAP of Cape Verde as a Coastal Nature Reserve. It is only a few metres from the road that connects the municipality to the neighbouring municipality of São Miguel.

Bay between Areia Branca and Ponta do Salto

In this bay you can find coral specimens, mainly of the Porites and Siderastrea genera, which for their ecological and landscape value are strong tourist attractions, carefully protecting the pillars of sustainability for the preservation of such a fragile environment.

In terms of culture, there are various manifestations: from batuco, tabanca, funaná and others. There are several artists in different fields; there is a municipal music school. In several places there are groups of drummers. There is a municipal library, a cinema which will be transformed into a cultural house. To mention the great names of Santa Cruz and Cape Verde culture in general, like Nha Nácia Gomes, kacthás, Sema Lope, Antão Barreto, etc.

The dynamics of artistic and cultural life, the level and capacity, the offer of cultural facilities, the degree of quality/quantity and the attractiveness of cultural facilities, as well as the number and diversity of artistic and cultural agents are indicative factors of the social development of the municipality.

Material Cultural Attractions

The religious buildings make up much of the estate built in the county, with the Parish Church, the various chapels scattered throughout the localities, as well as the ruins of the county's first Parish Church and its cemetery.

However, the population centres with houses of traditional architecture, the trapiches, the fishing support infrastructures and the traditional road network can still be highlighted as elements of the built heritage of the county. Of these, the following stand out:

Ruins of the Church and the Achada Church Cemetery

Among the religious buildings there are 13 buildings of worship used by the respective communities, with greater emphasis on the ruins of what was once the Parish Church, in honour of the patron saint of the municipality, St James the Great.

In the locality of Achada Igreja one can find the ruins of the said church and some graves of its cemetery which are strong ethnographic reasons for the inclusion of this village in the itineraries of those who visit the council.

Largo Catchás

King of Funaná", this is the name by which the musician and composer Carlos Alberto Martins - Catchás (1951-1988), founder of the group Bulimundo, creator and promoter of the Funaná movement, became known.

Son of this municipality, he was born in Renque Purga and the house where he lived, of traditional style, can be included in the circuit of tourists who visit the municipality, as an element of cultural tourist interest, as well as the houses of other artists of the municipality as "Nha Nácia Gomi", queen of "finaçon", Sema Lopi, Antão Barreto, among others.

It is the emblematic street of the historical centre of the city of Pedra Badejo because it was the biggest economic and social point of the municipality where, until a few years ago, one could observe the movement of people who develop different economic activities in the municipality.

Bulimundo Building

Building built in 1960 to be a psychiatric hospital, it has functioned since the creation of the municipality as Town Hall. Currently it is in a poor state of conservation and with few camaraderie sectors operating there.

Due to its strategic location, contiguous to the port of Pedra Badejo, it can be used as an accommodation unit, with a conference room and entertainment or cultural meeting point for the local population and visitors.

Falucho

An esplanade built in the shape of a typically Mediterranean boat with triangular sails, more precisely a Falucho in honour of all those who once connected the municipality and island of Santiago with the other islands.

It is located near the port of Pedra Badejo which gives it a majestic view over the bay of Santa Cruz, so it is much sought after by visitors and the local population, but is now closed and under restoration.

Port of Pedra Badejo

It has served in times past to make the maritime connection mainly with the island of Maio, where several people from the municipality of Santa Cruz live. With the smell of the sea and fish, the fishermen start to arrive from the sea in the morning and the fish, concentrated in Porto, carry the fish in bowls and go out to sell in the streets and in the market. It is another point of tourist interest where visitors can see the work of people connected to the sea and buy fresh seafood on the spot.

Trapiche

Sugar cane crushing plant, more frequent in rural areas and traditionally driven by animal traction, usually oxen, to the sound of canga bull to incite the animal. Nowadays, traditional trapiches have been gradually replaced by motorized trapiches. Initially, slave force was used.

The cane is ground and its juice, commonly known as syrup, collected in a container for future treatment. From this product the "grogue" - a traditional alcoholic drink of the country - is produced through distillation in an alembic, as well as some derivatives of the grogue and honey.

Intangible Cultural Heritage

With regard to the intangible historical and cultural heritage, such as in the rest of the country, religious or pilgrimage festivals, music, gastronomy, handicrafts, as well as some unique way of life of special groups, such as the Rabelados, which are strong cultural elements for the development of cultural tourism, stand out.

On 25 July, the municipality of Santa Cruz celebrates the day of the municipality and the feast of the patron saint, St. James the Great or "Nhu Santiago". It is one of the toughest festivals in the municipality where the music festival of Areia Grande beach is held every year, with the presence of internationally renowned artists, and also for this occasion they organise other activities such as the "Miss Santa Cruz" contest, "Todo Santa Cruz Canta" voice contest as well as horse races.

Festival "Um Concelho Três Ritmos" (Three Rhythms Council)

Held in the city of Pedra Badejo, it is organized annually in March, on the anniversary of the physical disappearance of Catchás, one of the renowned artists in Cape Verdean music and the creation of the Municipality of Santa Cruz. Several shows of Funaná, Batuco and Tabanca, the three styles that give name to the event, are held and attract many people from different parts of the country as well as foreign visitors.

Rabelados

A social group that has isolated itself from the other communities on the island of Santiago, with its own specific characteristics that differentiate it from other social households in the country. They are part of an identity of resistance to the changes introduced in the Catholic religion before the 1940s, constituting "the revealed", the chosen of Christ, whose mission is to preserve and reveal the sacred word.

They have a way of life of their own and hardly mix or receive people from outside the community of Rabelados in their villages, yet today they have shown some openness in some of their communities.

In the municipality there are communities of Rabelados in Achada Bel-Bel, which is accessed through the road of clearing from Cancelo and Pó Encostado, from Santa Cruz.

Gastronomy

Being a municipality with communities both from the coast and from the interior, its gastronomy is very based on sea products mixed with those from agricultural properties, presenting dishes such as fish stew, "caçom" in the oven, cachupa, confectionery and liqueurs based on earth fruits, such as mango, banana, coconut, among others.

The morphology of Santa Cruz is characterized by a tangle of hills, streams and finds. The small mountains, in turn, are flattened, giving way to the plateaus, usually called "Achadas".

From the study of maps and geographical maps of the municipality, it is possible to distinguish various geomorphological areas according to a greater or lesser predominance of the elevations. The area of Saltos and others are conditioned by a certain type of climate and economic activities propitious in each region.

Municipality of São Filipe

The Municipality of São Filipe is a municipality of the island of Fogo, in the group of Sotavento, in Cape Verde, with 27,826 individuals, or about 3/4 of the inhabitants of the island (today 2/4 of the island's land).

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The city of São Filipe corresponds to an urban nucleus with a compact aspect with development in amphitheater, in a small retreat on a vigorous cliff, on the southwest side of the island of Fogo. The growth of the city was very conditioned by the narrow and vigorous ravines of Ribeira Trindade to the North and Ribeira de São João to the South. The appearance of the city and its name date back to the early days of the island's settlement, between the end of the 15th century and the beginning of the 16th century. We remember that São Filipe was also the name of the island of Fogo in the early days of settlement.

The patron saint of the island and the city was celebrated on May 1st together with São Tiago Menor, in the Juliano calendar, a date kept on the island of Fogo despite the Gregorian reform. The choice of the place for the installation of the city could be associated to the prevailing winds of the NE, assured by the vigorous coastal cliffs, favoring the installation of the port and, in parallel, the high place secured them the defense of eventual enemies coming from the sea. The coastal currents were a great problem, but the situation was long resolved through the migration of the anchorage between Praia de Nossa Senhora and Vale do Cavaleiros (or "Barca-Baleeira" if I use the popular name). The tradition of the Marian cult in the Portuguese nautical and port denomination in the date of settlement of the islands leaves traces of high probability of the beach of Nossa Senhora to be the initial port where shipments of cotton and horses were made for trade with the coast of Guinea, and where slaves also entered who took care of the cultivation of land and livestock.

The decadence of trade with the coast of Guinea during the 17th century, as a consequence of the loss of importance in the triangular trade route, left the island of Fogo, as well as the neighboring island of Santiago, given over to the greatest misery. However, many of the illustrious families in the city of Ribeira Grande de Santiago had already migrated to the island of Fogo where they had farms.

Like the island of Santiago, until the end of the 19th century the system of land ownership in morgadios and chapels maintained a great cleavage between the whites of the land (the terratenientes), the black slaves and the freed blacks, who lived in dependence on the ruling class. This extreme scenario was sometimes attenuated by a class of mulattos who lived in a kind of transition between the terratins and the landless blacks. Being one of the oldest urban centers in the archipelago, and the oldest that maintained its capitality without interruption, the urban fabric reflects in all its origin in the slavery period. The ancient center

History presents the city of sobrados, "Bila Baixo", former residence of the dominant class of terratenientes and illustrious merchants and administrators, the Parish Church, house of the City Hall and the square. The neighborhoods of the poor, mulattos and blacks develop in the high zone and peripheral and with time cross the streams of the Trindade and St. John by the Achada de São Filipe where are the cemeteries also separated (in white cemetery and black cemetery).

Creation

São Filipe was elevated to the category of city by the Colonial Legislative Council in 1922 (B.O. nº28 of 1922), but its growth was very slow during the 20th century, maintaining mainly the functions of administration center, port of entry and exit of products from the island, place of trade, in an island dominated by agriculture and rurality.

In 1954, Orlando Ribeiro (pag.160 ) described the city of São Filipe as "a small and quiet village of 2000 inhabitants, half a dozen commercial houses, some wide where they lay the verandas of the best sobrados, the town hall square, building without style but with dignity, where is the bandstand for music, church open to a spacious churchyard, hospital, market, a miniature garden overlooking the cliff in front of the silhouette, at the same time gracille and austere, the island Brava, headquarters of administration, there also live the main people of the island.

Geographic Location

The municipality of São Filipe is located in the southern part of the island of Fogo. Fogo is part of the Sotavento group of islands together with those of Santiago, Maio and Brava. It is located 60 nautical miles from Praia, which corresponds to a 25 minute flight and 9 miles from Brava Island.

The municipality of São Filipe has an area of 391 Km2, which corresponds to more than ¾ of the 476 Km2 of the total area of the Island, corresponding to 9% of the total area of Cape Verde.

Population

According to the 2010 Census, the population of the municipality of São Filipe was 22,248, 36.6% urban and 63.4% rural, a low urbanization considering that, on the same date, 61.8% of the country's population was urban.

According to the 2010 Census data the active population in the Municipality of São Filipe was 7318 individuals (54.4%). There were 698 unemployed, 6726 inactive and an unemployment rate of 8.7%, below the national rate of 10.7%. In daily life there is a high rate of unemployment among young people. In informal conversation, the idea of widespread unemployment among young people persists.

Being a rural municipality, more than 70% of the population lives in the countryside depending on agriculture and livestock and public works. A significant part of the population is emigrated to the United States, Portugal and Angola, thus contributing to the development of the municipality.

Of the existing economic activities in the municipality, we highlight agriculture, including forestry and livestock, occupying 38.6% of the resident population.

The city of São Filipe constitutes the main urban center of the island of Fogo, node of connection with the other islands of the country, port and airport of entry and exit of people and goods. Largest commercial center, headquarters of bank agencies, travel agencies, business area, entertainment and lodging, headquarters of the Regional Hospital of the island, the Regional Command of the National Police of the islands of Fogo and Brava and most of the wholesale trade, in the functional framework the real capital of both islands.

In this perspective, S. Filipe is the biggest center of migratory convergence of those who leave the countryside in order to find an alternative to rural life. It should be noted, however, that those who leave the rural lands on the island of Fogo migrate largely to the neighboring island of Santiago. The dominant economic activity in the city is trade and services, a place of exchange and supply par excellence of the island, with great weight of the informal sector. Agriculture and livestock play a key role in the municipality which, as we have seen before, has more rural than urban population.

Agriculture

Family farms dominate, and much of the agricultural production is for domestic consumption, especially the production of corn and beans. Our vegetables, peanuts, fruits and tubers5 are marketed in surplus years and a con¬siderable portion is exported to the island of Santiago through rabidantes.

Recently, with the adoption of new irrigation systems (namely drip irrigation), many families of the city's growers explore small gardens and orchards for self-consumption and for sale on the local market.

The biggest constraints in the agricultural sector are linked to drought and the randomness of rainfall. In the last quarter of the 20th century, the growth of the population had an effect on the increase of the demographic weight on arable land with the consequent abandonment of the countryside by the young population.

Viticulture and fruit-growing have improved considerably in recent years and have considerable export potential to other islands and abroad.

Livestock

to livestock farming, which is seen as a complement to agriculture, just like other agricultural islands. Thus, breeders are also farmers who carry out both activities in the rainy season and care for the animals in the dry season. Linked to livestock is the manufacture of cheese and butter, whose production is made in the traditional way, is sold on the local market and exported to the island of Santiago. In the urban perimeter, livestock farming appears mainly in the computer districts with dominance for pigs, goats and poultry.

The main fishing port is Vale dos Cavaleiros, but there are other trawl boats such as Nossa Senhora beach and Boqueirão beach.

The main species captured are: Grouper, mountain, tuna, mackerel, mackerel, forcado, whiting and seafood, especially lobster. The population of Beltchés and Fonte Aleixo is dedicated to fishing, following an ancient tradition of the inhabitants of this area of the city. The production of artisanal fishing is destined mainly for local consumption.

Trade

In the city of São Filipe, the commercial activity covers both the wholesale and retail trade and the informal sector. The wholesale trade benefits from the proximity to the main port of entry of the island and provides service to the entire island of Fogo. In relation to the informal sector there is a great connection to the diaspora living in the United States of America that supplies used clothes, cosmetic products, household appliances, textiles, shoes and various bugi¬gangas passing through medicines and canned food.

The city is served by many wholesale stores, mini-markets, supermarket and a municipal market. There is, therefore, an intense exchange between the city of São Filipe and the other cities of the island as well as for the rest of the island.

Fishing

The main fishing port is Vale dos Cavaleiros, but there are other trawlers like Nossa Senhora beach and Boqueirão beach. The potential of the fishery resources were estimated between 4,800 to 5,500 tons/year, but considering the technical means of low efficiency, the average catch is around 400 tons/year (less than 10 percent). The 370 professional fishermen use open mouth boats of less than six meters in length (boats).

The main species caught are Grouper, saw, tuna, mackerel, forcado, whiting and seafood, especially lobster. The population of Beltchés and Fonte Aleixo is dedicated to fishing, following an ancient tradition of the inhabitants of this area of the city. The production of artisanal fishing is destined mainly for local consumption (Urban Profile of São Filipe).

The city of São Filipe, as well as the whole island of Fogo, has great potential in both domestic and international tourism. The volcano and the Chã-das-Caldeiras constitute the main natural patrimony that is disputed by all the councils of the island, but São Filipe has the advantage of having the door of entrance in the airport and port and still to possess the best conditions of lodging and feeding of the guests.

São Filipe's festivities on May 1st are one of the great tourist attractions of the island, as coming from many emigrants from abroad. It moves, above all, the internal tourism, with a great flow coming from the island of Santiago that can saturate the capacity of transport and accommodation of the city.

Some routes have called the port of São Filipe in anticipation of visiting the volcano of the island, which is also a regular place for tourists living on the island of Sal and Boa Vista who make cabotage flights through Cape Verde Express.

Tourism can be substantially improved with the qualification of access and accommodation, as well as the promotion of entertainment activities. Many of the anti¬gos sobrados have been transformed into residences and restaurants, hosting both foreign and domestic tourists.

Natural Tourist Attractions

Vila Beach

Vila beach is located south of S.Filipe municipality, between Vale dos Cavaleiros Port and Falésia where "Brancos" Cemetery is located. It is a beach of black sand, open with a longitudinal profile and clear and crystalline water that, despite being in a good state of conservation, tends to degrade due to the extraction of sand and accumulation of solid residues. Being south of the city of S. Filipe, more concretely in the Plaza do Presídio, you can see and access the beach of Fonte Vila by the trail that goes down the slope to the sea.

Salina

Salina is located in the northwest coast of the municipality of S. Filipe, more specifically, near São Jorge. It is a geological monument strongly sculpted by the effect of marine erosion over time, presenting various forms (natural swimming pool, galleries and caves). These geological sculptures are well preserved and present a certain harmony between their elements.

Leaving the city of S. Filipe to the west and heading north, after crossing several villages until S. Jorge, you can see the tip of Salina. Driving to the right, on a secondary road, you arrive at Salina which is in Fôz da ribeira de S. Jorge. There you can find some fishing boats and temporary fishing houses. The 18th of May party is celebrated here, whose high point culminates with the baptism ceremony, boat race, swimming and the musical festival. This place, given its natural characteristics, has potential for bathing tourism and events.

Inhuco Cave

The Inhuco Cave is a natural monument located in the southwest of S. Filipe. This attraction resulted from the action of nature, and like all other caves it can be used for activities related to speleotourism.

Falesia de N. S. Socorro

Falésia de N. Sª de Socorro is located in the southeast of the city of S. Filipe, more specifically in Ponta de Nª Sª de Socorro. It is a geological heritage in pike, and at its base several recesses can be observed, giving it a very proper and appealing configuration. Its geomorphological aspect and the outline of the base can arouse interest, above all, for those who appreciate landscapes.

Cave and Ribeira do Inferno

The Grotto and Ribeira do Inferno are located northwest of São Filipe, near Campana de Cima, merging with the Ribeira de Banana that flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It is a narrow, extensive and deep stream whose slope is covered with endemic plant species, especially tortolho. At the top is a cave that arouses curiosity and interest of visitors who pass through it, even if it is only for one photograph.

These characteristics make it an attractive landscape for contemplation.

Material Attractions

Historical center of São Filipe city

The city of S. Filipe is located southwest of the island of Fogo and is part of the municipality of S. Filipe. This town is located on a cliff 50-70 meters from the average sea level, more specifically from Fonte Vila Beach.
The old village of S. Filipe won the status of city in 1922, having affirmed itself as administrative and historical center of the island and later of the municipality. This city is marked by old houses, posts, squares and practices, church, Nha Carlota Fort, White Cemetery, Museum, Flag House, Municipal Market, Água Dinha Fountain, Passo/Escupira Cross and busts. They are monuments that for its architecture, history, memory, current function and state of conservation have tourist value.

Remains
They are two-story constructions, with diverse architectural characteristics, such as roof edges, internal patio, exterior balconies, ornamented inside with tiles, built between the second half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, which mark the architecture and power of the colonial era.
Given the number of existing Sobrados, the city of S. Filipe is commonly called "city of Sobrados". These are buildings that due to their architecture, state of conservation and historical value arouse the interest and curiosity of visitors, which demonstrates their tourist value. The longitudinal layout of the streets facilitates, in a certain way, the access and appreciation of the Sobrados, notwithstanding the absence of signs.

Positions, Squares and Practices
The city of S. Filipe has several squares, positions and practices: Alto S. Pedro, Largo do Padrão, Largo de Cruz dos Passos, Praceta Sacramento Monteiro, Praça Presídio and Praça João Pais. Most of them are in longitudinal profile, with little green area, characteristic of the squares to receive sculptures or to highlight buildings with historical value. The squares, the Largos and the Pracetas are spaces for leisure and recreation, events, homage to illustrious personalities and reception of busts.
At the top of St. Peter's we find the Square of the same name where the skill test is held, the "horse race", as part of the celebration of the feast of Nhô S. Filipe.
It also serves as a place of leisure and trophy delivery ceremony.

Largo and Alto São Pedro Square

In the Largo Presídio is the Plaza de Presídio, so called because there was a prison there, it is called the Prison. It is in this square that the bust of Alexandre Alberto da Rocha de Serpa Pinto, former Governor General of the colony, was raised. This space functions as a belvedere and place for events. It has a panoramic view of the sea where one can see the whole canal that separates the islands of Fogo and Brava and the Rombo Islanders.

Largo, Praça Presídio

Next to the Plaza Presídio is the Plaza "Meia Laranja" where the bust of Pedro Cardoso, a poet of reference in Cape Verdean literature, was raised. In addition to its social function, this square, together with the image of Pedro Cardoso, may constitute a literary site with potential for cultural tourism, in its literary side.

Half Orange Square

The President's Square is located in the center of the city, in front of the S. Filipe's City Hall Building. With typical characteristics of the transition squares, it serves as a bulkhead between the City Hall building, people movement and traffic. Like the other squares, it has rest and garden areas, constituting a leisure space. It is a space of easy access that is in good state of conservation.

Presidente Square

Church of Nhô S. Filipe
It is a religious heritage located in the center of the city, with colonial architecture dating from the late nineteenth century. Like the other historical monuments of the city, the church of Nhô S. Filipe, as a place of worship, for its architectural aspect and symbolism, associated with the patron feast and the Sanctuary image of this municipality can be a tourist attraction.
The Flag Festival that is celebrated on May 1st preceded by a series of activities related to gastronomy, sports events such as horseback riding and walking through the streets of the city attracts national and international visitors.

Chapel of Our Lady of Help
It is located east of the municipality of S. Filipe, on the cliff Ponta de Nª Sª do Socorro and approximately 10 kilometers from the city. This chapel celebrates the patron saint of travelers and castaways on October 13th.
It is a chapel built in the middle of the 19th century with a panoramic view to the sea. According to information gathered on the site, the construction of this chapel is associated with a legend.

According to information, the Catholic faithful make annual pilgrimages to this place, on the day when Mass and procession in honor of the patron saint is celebrated. Its location, architecture and religious activity, makes this place an attractive place with valence to integrate itineraries associated to religious tourism.

Fortim Carlota
It is a heritage built in honor of Queen Carlota Joaquina, between the end of the 17th century and early 18th century, which is located south of the city of S. Filipe on a cliff. It had several functions, among which the defense of the city against the enemies. Later it became a police station, hospital and civil prison. This building is in an advanced state of degradation, although it retains some architectural features with tourist potential.

Natural Immaterial Attractions

Banderona Party

The festival of the flags is a traditional feast of the island of Fogo where the famous horses of S. Sebastião, S. Filipe, S. João and S. Pedro are celebrated. It is a feast in honor of the four saints who are celebrated in the days of St. John the Baptist (June 24), St. Peter and St. Paul (June 29), St. Sebastian (January 20) and St. Philip (May 1). This is a popular manifestation inherited from colonial times that reflects the social structure of the island of Fogo.

For the foguenses, Bandeira is a feast in honor of a saint of great popular acceptance that has as its symbol a flag and that results of the cultural contact between the European white and the African black. It is a feast where the sacred and the profane mix, although it is a religious festival par excellence.
The festival of "Banderona" in particular varies according to the Carnival and is celebrated in the town of Campanas. It begins on January 31 and ends on the eve of Carnival. It is practically 24 days of conviviality, with diverse foods, drinks and rituals.

It is a mixed party, with religious activities in honor of St. John the Baptist, and profane cultural events. On the religious side, mass is said, with a procession in honor of the saint, and the profane, animals are slaughtered in the party house, accompanied by rituals such as drum rolls, singing of the coladeiras, among others.

This party has as its main figure, a kind of governor who is the head of the organization, popularly known as "cordidjeuru". It is a party that attracts not only people from different parts of the island, but also from other islands, diaspora and foreigners. Many faithful go on pilgrimage to Campana in order to pay promise and make devotion to Saint John the Baptist. The Bandeirona festival, by its nature, has potential for cultural and religious tourism.

Feast of St. Philip
It is a party of the City of S. Filipe that is celebrated on May 1st whose choice of the organizing committee of the party became the responsibility of the City Council. For being a party very close to the political sphere, it is celebrated with much euphoria.

Municipal Museum
The Municipal Museum is located in the city of S. Filipe, in the old sobrado, belonging to the Francisco Sacramento Monteiro family. It is a building that, due to its colonial architecture, portrays the particularities of the sobrados that characterize the historical center of the city and is in good state of conservation.
This museum is an attraction that allows visitors to know and "relive" the historical past of the island and the city, due to the spoils that exist there and its functional structure.

House of Memory
Like the Municipal Museum, the Casa da Memória (Memory House) is a historical building that, also for its architecture and current function (permanent exhibition of furniture and other objects), constitutes a tourist attraction that invites visitors to know and "relive" the local history. There are conferences, documentaries and films screenings and it also works as a library.
It is a space of private initiative that contains spoils from different periods of the island's social formation.

Aguadinha
It is located at the top of the city of S. Filipe and has a panoramic view to the sea, with the appearance of a house. It is a water reservoir inaugurated in 1914, from which water was distributed to the different localities of the city. Initially it received water from Chã das Caldeiras and later from Praia Ladrão due to the scarcity of water in the 40's, period of the reign of the Governor of Cape Verde, João de Figueiredo.
It is a building that is still in good condition and in harmony with the urban landscape.
Around this building is a garden, a bust and a fitness park, serving as a leisure space. It is easily accessible and given its location, it can serve as a belvedere, since from there you can see the whole city and the island Brava.

Monte Barro Winery
It is located north of the city of S. Filipe, specifically in Monte Barro. It is of easy access, for being located near the national road that connects the city of S. Filipe and Chã das Caldeiras.
It is an agricultural company of production and transformation of grapes into wine. The production is placed both in the local and international market. In this place, the visitor can appreciate the production process, visit the winery, taste the wine and make its acquisition. These activities constitute a specific "niche" of cultural tourism, in its enotourism aspect.

Nha Aleluia Pedestrian Street
The Pedestrian Street is located on the bed of a stream southeast of the city of S. Filipe. In this stream was made a work of pluvial drainage and at the same time the waterproofed surface was used to provide it with infrastructures of accessibility and fairs. In this street the visitor can walk, contemplate the landscape and buy some "souvenirs". It is a pleasant space that is in a good state of conservation and can be used for cultural events.

Like the other parties, the activities start three days before the day of the saint with Pilão and rockets in the square. The program of the party is very diverse, it begins with music and drumming, ride on horseback through the streets of the city, then Mass is said in church, with procession and at the end, culminates with the great lunch of the riders and other guests at the party house. Finally, in the evening the popular dances that end the party take place.
The feast of S. Filipe has gained such an outline that today it is considered the party par excellence of the island of Fogo and with greater projection. This party has strongly contributed to mobilize and energize internal tourism. The leisure and entertainment activities, the movement of restaurants, bars, pensions and hotels mark this party.

White Cemetery
The White People's Cemetery is located on a cliff, southeast of S. Filipe. It is easily accessible, and you can reach it on foot or by car from the historical center. It has a particularity for being a Cemetery where people belonging to the urban elite of S. Filipe were buried, which testifies to the stratification of the foguense society at the time. It functions as a memorial grave that symbolizes the power of the "Whites". This Cemetery is in good condition due to the last restoration made by public entities. It constitutes another patrimonial element that integrates the historical center and that can be used for the cultural tourist itinerary.

São Lourenço dos Órgãos Healthy City

The city of São Filipe is inserted in an island with active volcanism, although the volcano is far from the urban perimeter. The risks are imminent in the framework of volcanic eruption, by the manifestation of seismic tremors and the need to help the injured. In the municipality there is a seismological and volcanological surveillance service that monitors the volcanic activity such as micro earthquakes and the circulation of magma. However, the management of volcanic risks is ensured by the National Civil Protection Service and has a national scope.

Another potential risk is the drought that in the past will have decimated thousands of people. The drought is followed up in a systemic way by several central government services covering Civil Security, the Food Security Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health. In the recent period the cases of drought have been mitigated through emergency programs with the creation of jobs to help the affected peasants, distribution of water by autotankers, etc.

There is the possibility of flooding during torrential rains and cyclones, but as a rule in the city of São Filipe there are no urban constructions in areas subject to landslides and burglaries, nor in floodable areas. However, some houses, especially in the upper part of the city, and some public equipment have been installed very close to the water lines coming from the mountains. The steep slope of the island and the torrential nature of the rains could cause the flooding of these badly installed houses.

There may be potential risks of destruction caused by stormy winds in the passage of cyclones that are rare but unpredictable.

A present risk are pests and epidemics, the last major pests recorded in Cape Verde being associated with the invasion of the desert grasshopper (Schistocerca gregaria), which poses a danger above all to agriculture if the invasion coincides with the rainy season. The city of São Filipe is vulnerable to epidemics associated with water management such as cholera, dengue, typhoid, etc. The last dengue epidemic had high incidence and persistence in the city. In the past, it was victim of epidemics with calamitous effects until mid 20th century. Water management and supply are key points for the sanitary security of the island and the city ( Urban Profile of S. Filipe).

Municipality of São Lourenço dos Órgãos

São Lourenço dos Órgãos is a municipality of Cape Verde, on the island of Santiago.

10 HEALTHIER CITIES GOALS

CAPE VERDE AMBITION 2030

Creation

One of the oldest human settlements in the interior of the island is located there, attracted by the difficulties of access in times of slavery, the microclimate and the strong agricultural potential of the region. The parish of São Lourenço dos Órgãos is a compatriot of the Diocese of Santiago de Cabo Verde itself, created in the first half of the XVI century (in 1533). From the interaction between the practice of agriculture and the construction of housing and facilities to support economic activity, the current configuration of the urban/rural environment of the Municipality has been gaining body spontaneously, until the adoption, on 30 November 2011, of its Municipal Master Plan (PDM).

Historically, its evolution has been closely linked to the process of administrative and religious division of the island. In administrative terms, the parish of São Lourenço was under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Praia. Later, it became part of the municipality of Santa Cruz and, on May 9th 2005, the municipality of São Lourenço was created, initially managed by an Installing Commission, with only one parish, called the parish of São Lourenço dos Órgãos. The Municipality started to function in its plenitude in 2008, with the election of the Management Bodies (Inventory of Tourist Resources).

Geographic location

The Municipality of São Lourenço dos Órgãos is located in the centre of the island of Santiago and borders the municipalities of São Salvador do Mundo to the north, São Domingos to the south, Santa Cruz to the east and Ribeira Grande de Santiago to the west. This municipality is located in the interior of the island of Santiago and has no coastline. In terms of area it occupies an area of 39.5 Km2, which represents about 4% of the total area of Santiago Island and 1% of the national territory.

As far as morphology is concerned, it is a mountainous and deep valley municipality. The highest point is the Pico de Antonia, with about 1392m of altitude from where the streams Longueira, Covoada and Pico de Antonia are born, which are tributaries of the Ribeira Seca valley. There are also several mountains, hills and cornices, among which, the João Teves hill and the Mountain.

In general, the slopes have rather steep slopes and embedded valleys. From the climatic point of view, most of the municipal territory belongs to the humid and sub-humid floors. As far as vegetation is concerned, the São Jorge Forest Perimeter stands out, with several species of trees, shrubs and herbaceous, some being introduced and others endemic. The only botanical garden in the country, surrounded by an exuberant landscape, also stands out in the town of São Jorge. The relative abundance of vegetation explains the existence of an important bird community in this region where the Red Heron stands out, endemic to the island of Santiago.

Population

In terms of population, according to CENSO 2010, of the 7,388 inhabitants of the municipality, 48.3% are male and 51.7% female, with a density of 200 inhab./Km2, with about 77% living in rural areas and 23% in urban areas. Therefore, it is an inland municipality, marked by rurality. São Lourenço is a young town whose average age is around 27.9 years. About 58% of the population is under 25 years old and 33% are under 15. Between 15 and 64 years of age it is 57.5% and over 65 years of age it is only 9.5% (Inventory of Tourist Resources).

According to INE data in 2017, the population was 7,078,000, 49.7% women and 50.3% men.

São Lourenço is an essentially rural municipality whose main economic activity revolves around agriculture and livestock. They are two expressive economic activities in the municipality, being of traditional character, in spite of the effort of its modernisation, in the case of irrigated agriculture, with the construction of the dam and centre of transformation of agro-food products. In the centre of the city of João Teves, there are the administrative services and some activities linked to the bar/restaurant services.

Being a rural municipality, it has as one of the great opportunities, the main national road that crosses it along the whole extension.

The municipality also has important potential points of attraction for economic activities and tourism, such as the Poilon dam (agriculture, livestock, commerce and tourism) and the Pico de Antonia (mountain tourism), the highest elevation of Santiago Island, the third highest elevation in the country, the forest perimeter and the Botanical Garden of São Jorge (ecological and mountain tourism), points that can attract large investments for the region in the areas of tourism and trade.

Agriculture

With emphasis in the last QUIBB study, arable land accounts for 53% of the regional territory, only 10% is for construction and 37% is mountains and forests.

The municipality has 2,873 hectares of arable land and most of it (87%) is used for dry farming, i.e. cereals (maize and beans). Only 13% is devoted to horticulture. This parcel division refers to the obvious and urgent need to think and apply new agricultural dynamics in the Organs.

The Municipality has a strong tradition of manufacturing brandy, an ethnic product of high appreciation, both in the country and within the Cape Verdean diaspora in the world. The reformulation and modernisation of the manufacturing process, aiming at improving the quality of the product, will open doors for the creation of many permanent jobs and the dynamization of the economy of many households, since it is an essentially family production but with a value chain that starts in agriculture and has been one of the strategies to fight poverty.

Livestock

With the exception of breeding at INIDA, livestock farming is essentially domestic at the mercy of each family's possibilities.

Trade

Trade, in turn, is the third economic activity of the municipality with 11% of its population. A large part of the population has a differentiated occupation, given the service and other sectors.

However, there are opportunities for growth in this economic activity, bearing in mind that its geostrategic position in the centre of the island and easy access to other municipalities; the dam and the natural resources of tourist attraction could contribute greatly to the development of this sector.

Regarding tourism, the Municipality of São Lourenço dos Órgãos has all the conditions to demonstrate that, contrary to what is thought, Cape Verde is not only sun and beach. The municipality has excellent conditions for the practice of mountain tourism, with climbing and pedestrian routes. The county is part of a touristic itinerary, mainly for its natural charm, the mountains, the climate, for its beautiful and exotic landscapes, traditional and special gastronomy, combined by an exceptional cultural richness, a friendly and hospitable population, spice up the natural vocation for tourism development.

Furthermore, it has tourist infrastructures par excellence such as the Botanical Garden in São Jorge and the Poilão Dam (the largest hydraulic infrastructure in the country), historical points that portray past lives of the municipality in the periods before and after colonization. São Lourenço dos Órgãos is the obligatory point of passage for seven councils in the interior of the island. In this context, in partnership with community-based associations, the then Installation Commission implemented a Rui Vaz, São Jorge and Longueira itinerary project, financed by French Cooperation, which has had a positive impact on the development of the sector and the community in general. However, much work needs to be done on raising awareness among the population, creating tourist infrastructure and investing more in attracting tourists.

The micro-climate, close to the foot of the mountain, is a potential to associate mountain tourism with the production of coffee, grapes and wines or other high added value products, which can leverage the light industry in the municipality. The bird boom resulting from the permanent existence of water could also favour ecological tourism.

Mount Pico de Antónia

The Pico de Antónia is a natural monument, located in the centre of the island of Santiago, at the crossroads of the municipalities of São Lourenço dos Órgãos, Ribeira Grande de Santiago, S. Domingos and Santa Catarina. According to some historians, it was named Pico de Antónia in honour of António de Noli, one of the discoverers of the Cape Verde islands.

This geological heritage is the largest volcanic building of the myoplocene age, made up essentially of basaltic lavas. From a geomorphological point of view, it is characterized by abrupt slopes, marked by the incision of ravines and valleys that assume different forms and dimensions, resulting from water erosion. It is the highest elevation of the island of Santiago with about 1392m of altitude which is at the origin of the occurrence of microclimates that favour the development of biodiversity and endemism. It is unique for its scenic beauty and is part of the island's tourist itinerary. The Antonia peak is a relatively safe place, although it requires some care along the way.

João Teves Mountain

It is a mountain range that is located in the locality of João Teves and is part of the summit of Pico de Antónia. Its morphology looks like an organ of a tube that is the origin of the name of the Municipality. In geological terms, it is made up of basaltic cloaks which are part of the eruptive complex of Pico de Antónia and is 755m high. It is a natural element that presents different configurations depending on the position of the observer and its viewing angle. Due to its magnificence in the landscape, scenic beauty and its configuration should be part of the tourist itinerary.

Mount "Pedra Pessoa”

Located in Small Organs, it is a name given by the local community for appearing the image of a person. This Rock has aroused the interest and curiosity of visitors for contemplation and photographs. It is a place that is only accessible through vicinal paths.

Rasta Belvedere

It is located in the northwest of the municipality, 750 metres above sea level on the rasta plateau. The name according to the residents derives from the way some young people presented themselves, such as the way they dressed and their hairstyle. Its altitude gives it a spectacular panoramic view.

Valley of São Jorge

Vale de São Jorge is located on the eastern side of Pico de Antónia, between Longueira and Laje. It is a valley carved in the formation of the organs that presents the shape of a depression that allows the confluence of air along the slope of the Pico de Antonia, originating a local microclimate, which is why it is one of the greenest areas of the island of Santiago.

The São Jorge Valley is a faunistic area rich in bird species. Its vegetation cover, especially in the floristic belt and the rugged areas is a place of refuge for birds where they nest. There, an expressive number of endemic birds live there, such as Tchota de cana, Tchota de terra, Asa curta, Passarinha. Therefore, a place that for its calmness and tranquility invites visitors to rest, that is, a place of leisure.

The São Jorge Valley is full of attractions. There, several attractions stand out, among which the only Botanical Garden in the country, surrounded by an exuberant and beautiful landscape, with some viewpoints, marked and defined to the north by the Serra de Pico de Antónia (Natural Park), including the Forest Perimeter of São Jorge, the Grandvaux Barbosa Botanical Garden and the Locality of Longueira.

During the rainy season, the formation of small "waterfalls", attracts hundreds of visitors per day, coming from all over the island, mainly from the City to Praia, to enjoy this environment and escape a little from the stress of the urban centre, often to the sound of traditional music animated by local groups, especially the famous batucadeiras of São Jorge and the Xubenga group.

Forest Perimeter

It is an old relatively dense Forest Perimeter, resulting from several afforestation campaigns begun in the 1940s in high areas. It is composed of several species, namely Eucalyptus, Acacia, Lantuna, among others. It is a protected area and ecological reserve with high scientific and tourist value. Inside and outside the forest it is possible to find some side roads that can be used to promote nature tourism.

Locality of Longueira

In the Longueira area there are a number of species of trees, especially eucalyptus, fruit trees such as mango and others.

It is a green zone, with concentrated and dispersed settlements, characteristic of rural areas. Due to its very own characteristics, it can be a reference tourist point in the

municipality of São Lourenço dos Órgãos.

Banana-Ribeira Mountain

In the valley of the Mountain, municipality of S. Lourenço dos Órgãos, there is a locality known as "Banana", near the area of Librão which is about 220m high.

It is considered a Site of scientific interest because it is a nesting area of an endemic species exclusive to the island of Santiago, called "Garça Vermelha" (Purple Heron Burmey). (Inventory of Tourism Resources).

Historical and cultural attractions

City of João Teves

The city of João Teves is a small urban nucleus, an old town that rose to the category of city in 2010. It is a population cluster that developed along the national road, where most of the public and private services are concentrated, as well as restaurants, bars and snack bars. It is a rather small urban nucleus, located in the João Teves Valley, with a longitudinal profile, marked by the lack of streets, neighbourhoods and the absence of multi-storey buildings, but with some colonial and post-colonial buildings that testify to its origin.

Chapel of São Jorge

Located in the area of S. Jorge, it was built by the Estado Novo in the 1950s. It is one of the chapels with the same architectural style as the chapels of Achada Santo António and Bairro Craveiro Lopes, in Cidade da Praia.

The feast of Nhu San Jorge as it is known is celebrated right after Easter and always falls on a Sunday after São Salvador do Mundo. It is a very famous party, celebrated with a lot of hard work. The party is preceded by mass and procession.

Organ Market

The old Mercado dos Órgãos is located in the area of Pedra Amolar, next to the main road that gives access to Assomada. Its construction dates back to the end of the 19th century and was for a long time an important fair in the interior of Santiago, practically until the 1960s. It functioned as a fair for agricultural products on Mondays. In architectural terms, it is an elongated closed type building with an open-air commercial corridor in the interior.

Grandvaux Barbosa Botanical Garden

This Garden is located in Ribeirão Galinha and was created in 1986 with the aim of preserving and conserving Cape Verde's endemic species. It was named after the Portuguese researcher Luís Augusto Grandvaux Barbosa for his relevant scientific research on the vegetation of the Archipelago.

Currently, it is home to a wide variety of species, divided between endemic, ornamental and medicinal plants. Among the endemic species are Tortolho, Dragoeiro, Mato botão, Macela and Carqueja de Santiago, among others.

Luís Bridge

It is located in the city of João Teves, in Covão Sequeira, next to the national road Praia/Assomada. It is one of the few remaining traces of the old road built at the end of the 19th century to facilitate the journey of horses and ox-carts. It was named after Prince D. Luís, son of D. Carlos. It was built of red stone and has the shape of a Roman arch.

Ethnographic Museum of São Lourenço dos Órgãos

This Museum is located in the city of João Teves, on the main road to Santa Catarina, next to the Restaurant Dali. It is a museum that portrays the "modus vivendus" and the culture of the Laurentinos, their experiences, traditions and customs, in other words, it displays their cultural heritage (material and immaterial).

This museum contains various instruments and utensils that testify to the past of the inhabitants of this municipality. It also presents a collection of photographs that mirror the way of life and traditions of the country man.

Poilon Dam

The Poilão Dam is located in the town of the same name and was inaugurated in 2006. It is a 26m high hydraulic infrastructure, a 150m crest and a 15m reservoir.

This dam has had a positive impact on the local ecosystem, attracting birds

migratory and aquatic animals. It is one of the largest hydraulic infrastructures in the country with positive impacts on irrigation agriculture.

João Teves Square

João Teves Square is a leisure infrastructure located in the centre of the city, on the main road that gives access to Santa Catarina. It has a rectangular structure, green area, public lighting and is in good condition.

"Sobrados" and Colonial Houses

In São Lourenço, especially in the localities of Pico de Antónia, Longueira, Serrado, S. Jorge, Mercado, there is a group of grouped and dispersed houses, which corresponds to the typology commonly known as "Sobrados". They are constructions inherited from wealthy families (owners and traders), mostly descendants of the former settlers. They are one- or two-storey houses whose central part is almost always differentiated from the outbuildings.

Large House of Senhor Carlos Aguiar

It is a house of traditional architectural style from the colonial era, built in the 20th century and belonging to a Portuguese citizen named Carlos AguIar. He was a great agricultural owner of the time, where he left a vast estate of land and rural houses in the valleys of the Organs.

Sobrado Dinis Correia

It is an old house originally owned by Mrs. Vicente Aguiar which was later acquired by Mr. Dinis Correia in 1955 (CMSLO, 2015).

This building has a polygonal U-shaped plan facing north and has two floors due to the slope of the land. The roof is made of flat ceramic tile. This house is a typical example of colonial architecture set in the countryside.

House and Tomb of Buguendi de Senhor Carlos Aguiar

This property is located in Buguendi and integrates the set of patrimony built in São Lourenço dos Órgãos by the then Portuguese morgado Carlos Aguiar. It's a typical building of the Portuguese traditional architecture, it has a polygonal plan with the shape of an L, of only one floor, built of red stone and clay and with a roof of marselha tile at four waters. In the adjacent part of the central building is a ruined chapel and a probably 18th century tomb.

Serrado Farm

This farm is located in the locality of Serrado and is presumed to have belonged initially to Mr. João Alexandrino da Silva Pereira. Currently, this property belongs to the Ministry of Rural Development. It is a building that for its historical and patrimonial value can be used for rural tourism.

Nené Malena's House

This house is located in São Jorge, more specifically in Ribeirão Galinha. It is a building from the colonial period that according to Dona Maria Semedo, local resident, belonged to Mr. João Gomes of Portuguese nationality.

Ribeira Grande de Santiago Healthy City

The environment in São Lourenço dos Órgãos is marked by the predominance of rural culture, by the absence of urban spaces and of adequate systems of street and pavement. All this is aggravated by the deficit in terms of production and distribution of drinking water and the absence of urban infrastructures and sanitation.

The orography of the municipality's land, characterized by steep slopes, makes São Lourenço dos Órgãos quite vulnerable to natural disasters, namely floods caused by floods during the rainy season, landslides and stone falls. On the other hand, being a municipality with strong forest potentialities, there are risks of fires that call for a tight vigilance.

Municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago

The town of Ribeira Grande de Santiago, better known as Cidade Velha, is the seat of the municipality of the same name. Proclaimed in the XVI century, it is the cradle of the Cape Verdean Nation.

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About 10 km from the city of Praia on Santiago Island is the Ribeira Grande de Santiago, better known as Cidade Velha (or City of Santiago) and the seat of the municipality of the same name. It was proclaimed as a City Hall in the 16th century (the oldest in Cape Verde) and is considered the birthplace of the Cape Verdean Nation. Slaves from Africa passed through its port to Cape Verde and other parts of the world. This marks the great importance that Cidade Velha Ribeira Grande de Santiago, better known as Cidade Velha (or City of Santiago) and seat of the municipality of the same name.

Proclaimed as a City Hall in the XVI century (the oldest existing in Cape Verde), it is considered the cradle of the Cape Verdean Nation for world history and, as a centre for the acclimatisation of different forest species coming from the other continents, makes it a World Heritage Site.

City that knew its decline as a consequence of consecutive attacks by corsairs, famines and plagues and the repression of the Marquis of Pombal (Portuguese Prime Minister of the 18th century), was proclaimed again in 2005 with the reconstitution of the Municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago, autonomized from the Municipality of Praia. Cidade Velha (former Ribeira Grande de Santiago) preserves a significant number of buildings and ruins, such as the oldest colonial church in the world, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Homens Negros, built in 1495, with a chapel in Manueline style, the only one in Africa.

In 2000, the preparation of the application file for World Heritage, submitted to UNESCO in 2008, was started and finally, on 26 June 2009, Old Town was inscribed on the list of sites classified by UNESCO as World Heritage. On 10 June 2009 it was also classified as one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese origin in the World, after a competition with a public vote in which 27 monuments built by Portugal in the world participated.

When we talk about economic development, we are referring to two important aspects: job creation and job creation. These two aspects will encompass the dynamization of the existing economic fabric and the creation of attractive conditions for new investment. In the existing economic fabric, agriculture, fisheries and livestock farming occupy a prominent place and have all the conditions to strengthen themselves (CRMGS, 2008).

Agriculture, livestock and fishing are the main economic activities of this municipality, providing a livelihood for most families, contributing about 17.6% of employment in the municipality, which demonstrates the importance of activities linked to these sectors as a source of occupation and income for families (INE, 2010).

Agriculture

The agricultural system implemented is irrigated and dryland, with greater incidence in the localities of Cidade Velha, Calabaceira and salineiro (namely in the Ribeira Grande de Santiago Valley), Mosquito de horta, Pico Leão, Santana, João Varela/São Martinho Grande and São João Batista.

The farmers of the Municipality of RGS are not able to follow the demands of the market, facing a series of difficulties, namely: the management of water for irrigation, handling of pesticides, transport and storage of the products, draining of the products, accessibility, training and qualification, acquisition of modern equipment, lack of financing, inexistence of a strategic plan of agriculture (Archives CMRGS, 2016).

Other constraints are linked to natural factors, mainly irregularity, low rainfall and poor spatial distribution, soil erosion, especially in agricultural areas, degradation of pasture areas, steep slope of agricultural soils and their stony character, and poor availability of soil and water resources.

Livestock

Livestock farming is one of the municipality’s most important activities and is the basis for most families in the municipality. The majority of livestock production is for self-consumption and a small percentage is for local marketing and in the city of Praia. Livestock production is for pigs, goats, cattle and poultry.

Industry

In relation to the Industry, the City Hall has been developing efforts to boost the surge of a varied craft production, promoting – thanks to several partnerships – training courses for the production of sweets and juices (in the old school – Old Town), cheese, cloth dolls. As a result, there is already a basis for the increase of artisan production, which joins the other artisans in the field.

In the Municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago there are about 26 craftsmen, with their own production lines in the following areas: Cutting and sewing, transformation of agricultural products, bijouterie, bone and wood works, confection of rag dolls and lace and embroidery.

Trade

With regard to trade and services (production and processing), according to data from INE 2013, there were 34 retail trade companies in the Municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago, out of a total of 3,781 at national level. Craft activity is still at an embryonic stage, which has allowed craftsmen from the west coast of Africa to take advantage of the situation to sell non-indigenous products.

Trade is concentrated in establishments mostly located in the Old Town and the different localities of the Municipality, with prevalence for the trade of food and beverages in small shops.

Fishing

Fishing is also an important sector of activity, employing 234 people, the equivalent of 4.1% of the jobs created in this municipality, although its economic weight is still very relative and incipient.

There are 40 fishermen operating in the fishing port of Cidade Velha, distributed among twenty motorised, open-mouthed craft. Here they also work thirty fish which almost all of them sell their products to the market in Praia. Only two of them sell in Cidade Velha.

The main constraints of the sector are related to the progressive remoteness of the fishing areas, implying costs that are difficult to bear by small artisanal units with petrol engines, especially when there are no catches at the level of being able to cover the costs.

As regards production infrastructure, there are no semi-industrial fishing vessels, nor fish conservation structures such as conservation chambers and operating ice production units.

The municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago has great conditions for historical and cultural tourism enhanced by the importance of the historic site made up of a number of monuments that have consecrated the recognition of the Old Town as a World Cultural Heritage.

The company's activities mainly include the implementation of a tour of the historical site, the operation of Pousada S. Pedro, in the Ribeira Grande valley, and a restaurant service at Praça do Pelourinho.

In addition to this Pousada with six rooms, the Municipality has three more hotel units making up an offer of 300 beds. There is also another hotel under construction, as well as a rural and residential tourism project in the town of Santa Marta.

Natural Tourist Attractions

Old Town Beach

It is a beach located in the terminal of Ribeira de Cidade Velha with approximately 300m of length and 3m of width. It is a small beach, composed of pebbles and clear water. Although it is a beach with easy access, it is more frequented by the local population.

Ribeira de Cidade Valley

It is a green valley, covered with coconut trees, mango trees, sugarcane and other species of trees that gives it a peculiar characteristic in the context of the semi-arid area of the coast. Due to these characteristics, it can be considered the "lung" of the Old Town.

Allied to the culture of irrigation, brandy is produced in this place, being the "Fortress and Morabeza" better known. It is a valley embedded in the shape of a "U", quite fertile that has a local microclimate.

Calabaceira (Embondeiro)

It is a tree found in the centre of the city. The Calabaceira (Adansonia digitata L.) is an arboreal species from tropical and subtropical continental Africa that was introduced in some Cape Verde islands. It is more than 10m high and its perimeter can exceed 4m, thus imposing on the landscape for its greatness.

It is considered a sacred tree, with many legends associated. It is well known in Cape Verde for its gastronomic value. It is also considered a medicinal plant.

This tree has a particular symbolism because, according to history, it was one of the visiting points of one of the mentors of evolutionism, Charles Darwin, in his passage through Cape Verde, whose descriptions appear in the diary of this naturalist scientist.

Caniço Beach

It is a small sandy beach, located about 2.5 km from the historic centre of the city and made up essentially of pebbles and black sand.

Cadjeta Beach

It is a beach located in the area of S. Martinho Grande, of small dimension and constituted by black sand, crystalline water and pebbles rolled. It stands out for its historical value, serving for some time as a support point for commercial aviation between Europe and South America.

Mount São João

It is a small elevation of 259 m, located in the area of Achada Barnel. Due to its imposing landscape and geomorphologic configuration, it can arouse visitors' curiosity, especially at the time when it is green.

Monte Facho

Located in the south of the municipality of Ribeira Grande, more specifically in the town of São Martinho. It has 253m of altitude and, is formed essentially by basaltic lavas, belonging to the formation of Pico de Antónia (PA). It is unique in the fact that it has a panoramic view that allows to contemplate a significant part of the municipality of Ribeira Grande. From the city of Praia, on clear days, one can see the islands of Fogo and Maio.

Still, it has a historical value, because it was a strategic point of defence of the city, where it served as a lookout post for pirates who wanted to approach the coast because of the visual field it provides.

Santa Clara Mountain

It is located in the Ribeira de Serra de Santa Clara, more specifically, in the northwest of the municipality, in the border area with the municipality of Santa Catarina. It is a geomorphological heritage made up essentially of basaltic rocks, which stands out for its imposing landscape and scenic beauty.

Santa Clara Cave

This cave is located in Santa Clara beach and is part of the seven wonders of the municipality. It is a cave formed in underwater lavas whose origin is partly due to marine action. It is unique in that it presents the shape of the inverted African continent and the curiosity that can awaken visitors to know what mystery exists beyond this cave.

Ribeira de Santa Clara

The Ribeira de Santa Clara, as its name indicates, is in the area of Santa Clara. It is a valley with the shape of a cannon, with about 8 km of extension whose highest point reaches 550 m of altitude. The Ribeira de Santa Clara, in the terminal sector, has a U-shaped bottom, with abrupt slopes. Being inside the valley one has the feeling of being completely isolated from the rest of the world. In addition, there is a vegetation cover at the bottom of the valley, which in the context of the aridity in which it is inserted constitute an authentic oasis.

Wall of São João Baptista

This wall is located in the area of São João Baptista, more concretely in the locality of Chã de Igreja. It is a residual relief marked by the columnar disjunction that stands out for its singularity and aesthetics in the context of the local geomorphology of the island of Santiago. This natural monument, due to its characteristics, must be integrated in the touristic route to be visited.

Bay and Port of Gouveia

The Bay and the port of Gouveia are located at the tip of Lombisqueira, Gouveia area.

It has the shape of a semicircle whose cliff is steep. It has a beach of stones rolled as a result of floods and marine action. It is an accessible beach because it is located near the main road. This beach is degraded due to the catching of sand. Due to its geomorphological outline and historical importance, as a port of entry of goods (salt and coal) to the island constitutes a tourist attraction to consider.

Monte Volta

It is a 381m high volcanic cone located in Achada Mosquito, west of Ribeira de S. João. It is a cone made of pyroclastic materials with a reddish colour, due to the presence of iron oxide. Around it we can see traces of large volcanic bombs that witness the violence of the eruptions that were at its origin. From there, one can appreciate an arid landscape along the coast.

Ribeira Santana

Located on the western side of the Pico de Antonia mountain range, it is a V-shaped valley whose headland lies at the level of Mount Campanario, one of the three peaks that define the Pico de Antonia mountain range. In the terminal sector it flows into the Ribeira de São João, leading to the Port of Gouveia.

It is a valley carved essentially in the Old Eruptive Complex (CA), with slopes with strong slopes and cornices cut into basalts.

In the Ribeira de Santana, due to its morphology and charm, the town of Santa Ana stands out, between 400 and 500 metres of altitude. The locality is fed by the streams Furna, Ribeira Amargosa, Ribeira Hortelão and Ribeira Saco which are born in the mountains of Pico de Antónia. Thus, it is understood the relative availability in fresh water in the old times and green aspects of this valley, which gives it an inviting landscape to contemplate.

Locality of Belém

The Ribeira de Belém is located west of the Ribeira de Santana and is born at the highest point of the island. It is also an affluent of the Ribeira de São João which flows into the sea, more specifically, the Port of Gouveia. It is about 5km long; it is a deep valley with slopes carved in different geological formations. Downstream, there is a predominance of the Formation of the Flemish, Old Eruptive Complex (CA) - the first lavas that were emitted during the formation of the island - and upstream, the formation of Pico de Antónia (PA) predominates.

The Ribeira de Belém rises at the head of the Pico de Antónia Massif and has as tributaries, upstream, the Ribeiras de Chuva Chove, Ribeira de Pico Leão and Ribeira de Fundão. In the middle of the Ribeira, the town of Belém stands out. It is located in the southwest slope of Monte Belém, which due to its altitude imposes a landscape strongly marked by furrows; ravines and ravines resulting from water erosion.

In this locality, the mountain of Belém stands out, a volcanic cone of the formation age of the cow mount, with 572 metres of altitude. This hill is essentially formed by pyroclastic materials and lava flows. It stands on a find with an average altitude of around 400m. The bottom of the valleys has green spots which give it a particular beauty, especially in the rainy season.

Belem is also known for celebrating one of the most popular festivals of Ribeira Grande de Santiago - the feast of Nhô Santo António, on June 13.

Covão Grande Bay: Prainha

This bay is located between Porto de Goveia and Porto Mosquito, southwest of Monte Volta. There are small lagoons where you can observe the marine biodiversity. These lagoons can be used for relaxation, sunbathing, picnics, or simple observation of the surrounding landscape.

It is unique for the beauty of the underwater lavas, crossed by basaltic dikes that configure authentic tunnels quite impressive for their magnificence.

Porto Mosquito Beach

This beach is located in Porto Mosquito, a fishing village. It is a small beach composed essentially of pebbles and a small natural pool. Because it is a beach of rocks and given the conditions of the place is little used for bathing, except by the local population. There is the baptism of a boat framed in the festivities of celebration of N.S. dos Navegantes.

The Old Town is the seat of the municipality and is a Material and Immaterial World Heritage site recognised by UNESCO in 2009. It was the first capital of Cape Verde, with an important historical past, generating ever more intense cultural tourism. In 2014 it was also considered the Cape Verdean capital of culture. Rich in cultural manifestations, it is worth mentioning namely Tabanca, Batuco, Music, Theatre and Traditional Tales (CMRGS Archive, 2016).

As far as Heritage is concerned, Cidade Velha, an inhabited site, surrounded by military, religious and civil monuments, portraying life since the 15th century, is an authentic open-air museum, World Heritage.

Its historical past makes the small-town conserve monuments and ruins of great significance (Royal Fortress of St. Philip, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary - the oldest still existing in Africa south of the Tropic of Cancer, from the 15th century), Pillory, Convent of St. Francis and important ruins such as the Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of the Conception (the oldest church built in sub-Saharan Africa), Church of Mercy, etc. Despite the historical and cultural importance of the monuments, the state of conservation in which they are located needs to be highlighted and they need to be properly used.

Also of note is the existing underwater wealth, which needs further study, identification, inventorying, promoting the preservation of memory and its sustainable use for tourism.

In relation to the immaterial heritage, the passage of the important navigators through Cidade Velha, namely António da Noli, Vasco da Gama, Cristóvão Colombo and Américo Vespúcio, the corsairs Francis Drake and Jack Cassard among others, should be highlighted. One can also mention the importance of the mother tongue, the Creole, traditional tales, experience and the identity of our people.

Cidade Velha, one of the seven wonders of Portuguese origin in the world, is a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities (OCPM) and is affiliated to the Union of Portuguese Speaking Capital Cities (UCCLA).

Historical and cultural attractions

Historic centre of the Old Town

This is an urban centre founded in the 15th century, located in the southwest of the island of Santiago as part of European expansion. It is home to a number of historical and cultural monuments, including religious, military and civil monuments that bear witness to the colonial influence on the origin and evolution of Cape Verdean society.

Royal Fortress

In the historic centre of the Old Town there are traces of several forts built in the early colonial era that served as a defence against the successive attacks by pirates and the claims of European powers.

Part of this military heritage are the royal fortress of São Felipe and small fort ruins such as São Veríssimo, São Lourenço, Santo António and the ruins of Torre de Vigia.

The Royal Fortress of São Felipe, located in Achada Forte, at the entrance of the city was built during the reign of Felipe I in the XVI century. It is a building with wall structures that contains several cannons facing the sea and that is in a good state of conservation.

This tourist attraction is easily accessible, either on foot or by car. This Fortress and its surrounding area constitute an authentic belvedere. In this place you have a panoramic view to the sea and you can contemplate the historical centre from above, appreciate the humanized landscape and the sunset.

Cathedral

It is the first cathedral built on the West African coast, on the initiative of Friar Francisco da Cruz, the third Bishop of Cape Verde. It began to be built in 1556, in a privileged location, facing the ocean, and was completed only in 1700, due to the crises in the clerical institution, and also in its relationship with the monarchic power.

Its decline is contemporary to the fall of the city itself, due to a great storm and the attacks of the pirates commanded by Jacques Cassard in 1712, dictating the departure of the ecclesiastical city from power.

Chapel of São Roque

This Chapel is located in the upper part of the city near the Royal Fortress, in the Monte Sossego neighbourhood. It is a small building that is in good condition. It is a historical heritage that should be part of the cultural touristic route.

Pelourinho

Located in the historic centre of the city and built in the 16th century (1512) of white marble, it is one of the smallest monuments in the city, but it has great historical value because of the symbol it represents, i.e. it is the symbol of the power of the colonial administration. In the past, it served as a place where disobedient slaves were whipped in public.

Banana Street

It is a street with houses painted white, made of rustic stone and covered with straw, which served as the home of the Portuguese and Castilian noblemen. It was the first street that the Europeans built in Africa and has to this day a trace of the original architecture dating from the 15th century. From this street one can appreciate the vegetation along the Ribeira Grande, where agricultural activities are practised.

Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário

The church of Our Lady of the Rosary is one of the oldest buildings of the Ribeira Grande still existing, constituting one of the rare examples of Gothic architecture in sub-Saharan Africa (dome of the side chapel). This Manueline style chapel is the founding element of this building. The key to its dome has a stamp representing the cross of the Portuguese crown. The church, the main part of which has been built since 1495, being the oldest building in use in Cape Verde, is situated on a promontory that dominates Carrera street and was built in honour of Our Lady of the Rosary patron saint of black men.

São Francisco Convent

The construction of the Church/Convent of St Francis began in the second half of the 17th century. The convent was built by a rich natural proprietor of the island named Joana Coelho and was designed to welcome Franciscan religious who had recently arrived on the island of Santiago. It also functioned as a formation centre, where the priests gave classes and taught other trades. After its destruction in the 18th century, it was restored from the year 2000 onwards, and now has multiple functions, from retreat of the priests to events, conferences. This convent is located in the Ribeira Grande valley and is surrounded by a cultivation area.

Ruins of the Church / Misericórdia Hospital

The Church of Mercy was built by the third bishop of Cape Verde, Friar Francisco da Cruz from 1555 onwards. In 1864 the whole of Misericórdia was in ruins. The only apparent remnant of the church is its quadrangular bell tower which was restored in 2010.

Nossa Senhora do Bom Caminho Chapel

Located on the road that leads to São João Baptista, more specifically in Achada Barnelo. It is a chapel with traces of modern architecture, where the patron saint is Our Lady of the Good Way, celebrated in May. It is accessible and in good condition.

São João Batista Chapel

Located in São João Batista, it is a colonial style chapel that is in a good state of conservation. It celebrates the feast of St. John the Baptist, a feast much attended by the sanaguenses.

Gouveia Chapel

This chapel was recently built and is located in the town of Gouveia. It presents a more modern architectural style and some elements that mark its singularity. In this locality it is commemorated the party of N.S. of the Presentation in the month of November.

Santa Ana Chapel

It is a chapel located at the top of Santa Ana, with a colonial architecture. The feast of the patron saint is celebrated on 26 July. This festival attracts thousands of people and is celebrated by the local community with great vivacity.

Nossa Senhora do Navegante Chapel

It is located in the area of Porto Mosquito and due to the metallic structure installed in the front of the building, its patrimonial value is reduced. It is a chapel with similar characteristics to Gouveia. The patron saint is Nossa Senhora do Navegante which is celebrated in October. According to tradition, it is also the baptism by boat.

Bom Pastor Chapel

It is a chapel with about twenty years of modern features that is in good condition. The patron saint depends on the feast of Easter, because it is celebrated four days after Easter, so the feast is irregular.

São Pedro Chapel

It is a colonial style chapel, located in Salineiro where the feast of the patron saint is celebrated on 29 June.

Immaterial Cultural Attractions

Tabanca

In relation to Tabanca, the oldest group in Cape Verde is Tabanca de Salineiro, which emerged around the 16th century. The current group consists of 30 members, including young and old, all living in the town of Salineiro. They have participated in various activities at local level and on the island of Santiago, always driven by a love of Cape Verdean culture and in favour of the appreciation of Tabanca.

Batuque

The Batuco is one of the Cape Verdean cultural manifestations with enormous prestige at the national level and in the Cape Verdean communities in the Diaspora, expressing the origin, identity and daily life of the Cape Verdean people; it has been a form of transmission of our culture and also of exchange between generations, reconciling traditional and modernity. Proof of this is the emergence of groups of children, the growing participation of men, the use of diverse equipment and the wearing of costumes.

There are batuco groups in all the localities of the Municipality, and in some of the localities there are more than one group, approximately a total of 30 groups, including 2 groups made up of children from the Basic School, totalling about 400 elements.

Theatre

Theatre is one of the cultural areas with the greatest deficit, however there are some active groups, one in São Martinho Grande, one in Cidade Velha, one in Salineiro and several individual actors.

CMRGS, the Government and other partners have been investing in theatre training, however the expected dynamics are not being verified, due to factors such as: the dispersion of localities, emigration, alcoholism, little appreciation of theatre in a continuous way.

Gastronomy

Cape Verdean gastronomy is rich and varied in general. In the particular case of RGS the gastronomy is essentially based on fish and agricultural products. The famous Old Town fish broth, Cachupa, Xérem, Feijoada and Cuscuz are worth mentioning.

In relation to drinks, emphasis is given to those produced locally: The Grogue, Pontche, natural juices and liquors. Also part of the local gastronomy, the traditional sweets made with local fruits and products. Cow and goat cheeses are still produced to complement the gastronomy.

Music

The Municipality of RGS is well positioned in the market of Music at national and international level, with prominence to some artists who have divulged RGS and Cape Verde in the world, such as Zé Spanhol, Eddu, Duco Cidadi, Dino Toya in diverse musical styles such as Funana, Zouk, Kizomba, Haouse, Hip Pop. It is also worth mentioning the initiative of our young talents who have been betting in diverse styles always with the intention of projecting the Cape Verdean culture.

Traditional Festivities

“Nhu Santu Nomi” is one of the most emblematic national festivities, as it has helped to project local and national artists, turning RGS into a great stage of cultural exchange.

Like this festival, in all localities of RGS, popular festivals and pilgrimages are celebrated with the support of CMRGS, in partnership with local artists and community and public and private companies. There has been a great synergy between the profane and the religious, which has contributed to a greater dissemination of our culture, boosting the economy and generating some income for families.

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The main urban risks are related to floods and accidents that occur mainly on roads and in some professional activities.

There is no organised civil protection service, but it is planned to set up an emergency centre in the near future to be operated in partnership between the National Civil Protection Service and the RGST City Council.

Municipality of São Miguel

São Miguel is a municipality/rural municipality on the island of Santiago, Cape Verde, with 91 km² and 16,104 inhabitants.

São Miguel Healthy City

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The parish of São Miguel, one of the oldest in the country, was under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Santa Catarina when it was created in 1834. The headquarters of the parish was in Ribeira de São Miguel, of which the Matriz Church is a witness.

With the creation of the county of Tarrafal by the Decree - Law nº 3108, published in the Official Bulletin nº 3, of 25th April 1917, grouping the parishes of Santo Amaro Abade and São Miguel Arcanjo, with headquarters in the "village" of Tarrafal, the parish of São Miguel remained in this county until 1997, year in which it was transformed into a county under the terms of Law nº 11/05/96 of 11th November.

Creation

In 1996, according to Law no. 11/V/96 of 11 November, this parish is elevated to the category of Council. At that time the village of Calheta is promoted to the Village, becoming the county seat, the administrative and economic centre of the Municipality and the largest population nucleus. Located on the municipality's coastline, it is made up of three population clusters: Calheta, Venice and Ponta Verde, implemented along the structurally coastal road and without much density or height, not showing a continuous nucleus.

Calheta is elevated to the category of city in 2010 (Law No. 77/VII/2010 B.O No. 32, Series I, 23 August 2010).

Geographic location

The municipality of São Miguel is located in the northeast region of Santiago Island. With a surface area of 90.2 km2 and a density of approximately 173.5 inhabitants per km2, most of the population lives in rural areas (73%). Of its 23 towns, Calheta, formed by the towns of Calheta, Venice and Ponta Verde, is the only urban centre in the municipality.

At 40 Km from Praia, capital of the country, it is bordered by three other Municipalities: Tarrafal to the North, Santa Cruz to the South and Santa Catarina to the West, with which it shares some common infrastructures, and to the East with the maritime border.

Population

In 2010, São Miguel's population was 15,648 (42.6% male and 57.4% female), 27% of whom lived in urban areas and 73% in rural areas. According to 2008 data, the population of working age was around 30%. The projections by municipality of INE 2008 already predicted a decrease in the population of São Miguel, confirmed in the 2010 Census. Of the 23 population areas, the most concentrated are Calheta (25%), Principal (9%), Achada Monte and Pilão Cão (8% each).

The population dynamics of the municipality is characterised by a positive average annual growth rate of 1.6% in the decade 1990-2000, the decade in which S. Miguel is elevated to the category of Municipality, to pass to a negative growth in the decade of 2000-2010, where he sees his population decreasing at an annual average rate of -0.3%, with greater incidence in the urban area where this rhythm presents itself more accelerated (-1.4%), result of some internal migration, mainly of the active population, in the band of 30-40 years looking for better conditions of life in the islands of Sal and Boavista and in the municipality of Praia.

The economy is basically based on agriculture, practised in a family regime on irrigated properties, essentially along the rivers. Alongside this there are about 50 dryland farmers. The most practised agriculture is non-irrigated, with maize, beans (stone, bongolon and congo), sweet potatoes and cassava being the predominant crops. Conditioned mainly by the amount of rainfall, the yields are low and the productions are quite random.

Despite the significant increase over the years of people engaging in formal and informal trade (8.7% of the working population employed in 2010) and the provision of services, the Council's economy is driven by the activities related to the primary sector: agriculture, livestock and fishing (31%) which significantly guarantee the livelihood and income of families. The construction sector absorbed about 12% and education 6.7% of the unemployed working population.

Agriculture

Being a municipality with an agricultural vocation, agriculture is its main economic activity, despite natural and technological constraints. In fact, it is an activity that depends greatly on rainfall, which is usually scarce and irregular. This randomness has caused agricultural production to oscillate annually according to the rainfall regime, its quantity and its spatial-temporal distribution.

The main dry crops are maize, beans, cassava and sweet potatoes, while sugar cane, cassava, potatoes and various vegetables are grown in irrigation. Agriculture, in the vast majority of subsistence, is practised in a family regime mainly in the existing irrigated properties, essentially along the rivers. Dry farming, which is highly dependent on the rainfall, is practised on the slopes by dry farming farmers who mainly grow maize and beans.

Irrigation is practised on the riverbeds, mainly downstream of the valleys of the main river basins-Flamengos, Ribeireta, S. Miguel and Principal, except for the Principal basin where this activity is practised to a greater extent and intensity upstream, and it is developed thanks to the introduction of the drip irrigation system.

Cattle breeding

Together with agriculture, livestock farming is one of the main bases of the Council's economy. Even though it is a productive activity that complements agriculture, it plays an important role as a source of income for families.

Livestock farming is a complementary activity to agriculture and is carried out by practically all families. In the municipality, family and subsistence farming predominates. According to the 1995 livestock census, São Miguel is one of the municipalities in the country with the largest number of livestock.

Industry

São Miguel, in terms of industrial development is considered incipient in the national context. Meanwhile, the production, by traditional processes and in small family units, of sugar cane brandy and honey, cheese, liquors and sweets is registered. Small units linked to the carpentry and carpentry, locksmithing and mechanical sub-sectors are also noteworthy.

Trade

As is the case throughout Cape Verde, trade, both formal and informal, is an activity with some expression in the Municipality and has gained greater notoriety over the years. The commercial establishments are represented by 70 licensed houses and some mini-markets and shops of diverse nature. The growing appearance of mini markets in the Municipality, mainly in urban centres, competing competitively with other non-formal commercial practices brings great advantages to the Municipality as quantity and quality are guaranteed.

However, the informal sector is predominant in commerce and constitutes an important livelihood strategy, especially for women heads of households. It shows no signs of weakening; on the contrary, it tends to increase in urban centres, even with some control by competition authorities.

Fisheries

Although it is a poorly developed activity (of the artisanal type and with low financial income), it employs a significant number of families both at the level of production and at the level of marketing of fish (fish).

Fishing is usually carried out on small boats of four metres or less, mostly equipped with small outboard motors. The catch is usually low and the fish are insufficient to supply the local market. Fishermen from urban areas are relatively large compared to those from rural areas. Fishery products (usually mackerel, horse mackerel, tuna and some molluscs) are sold in the various localities of the municipality by a total of 150 fish which earn their families a living in this way.

The characteristics of the municipality are relevant to tourism activity. The beaches in the city of Calheta and towards Tarrafal present some potential for bathing tourism if qualified; the natural park of Serra Malagueta presents potential for mountain tourism and for important hiking stretches; the mountains, associated with agriculture and livestock, throughout the municipality have potential for differentiated rural tourism; the area of Espinho Branco is the cradle of the Rabelados, a minority population with unique characteristics that enhance cultural tourism; however, the absence of accommodation and transport infrastructures has made it impossible for tour operators to invest more effectively.

Likewise, although still incipient, the tourist activity and related activities are beginning to gain a new dynamic and a new impulse in the Municipality. Private investments, particularly by emigrants from São Miguel, are starting to be channelled into the sector, which heralds a new pace of development in this sector.

Natural tourist attractions

The visual quality of São Miguel's landscapes is very high. Of particular significance are the landscapes perceived from the road that runs along the coast. A route in which Ribeira Principal is the protagonist until reaching the Serra Malagueta Natural Park. In the municipality there are also other detachable "landscape landmarks" which should be considered as landscape heritage. The historical anthropization of the territory gives a cultural character to the landscapes of the municipality and results in them being considered as natural heritage of the municipality.

Malagueta mountain range

Along with Tarrafal and Santa Catarina, the municipality of São Miguel is also covered by the Serra Malagueta Natural Park, with most of the Park's area, 436 hectares, covering the communities of Xaxa and Gongon and part of the Ribeira Principal. This territory is rich in endemic species, some of which are in danger of extinction, both plant and animal, such as the Carqueja de Santiago (Limonium lobinii) which can only be found in this part of the country, as well as birds, small land reptiles of scientific relevance and some exotic mammals such as monkeys.

Monte Frada

Due to its majestic beauty and rich landscape and the abundance of native flora and fauna, this mountain was proposed by the local PDM to be part of the RNAP of Cape Verde. It is located in Hortelã, in Ribeira de Principal and has strong potential for the development of tourism activities in rural areas, such as ecotourism, mountaineering, agrotourism, etc.

Gruta Rachado

Located between the Ribeireta and Flamengos streams, it is only a few kilometres from Venice, halfway to the town of Ribeireta.

The famous thief Sousa Zebedeu, who committed several robberies all over the island of Santiago, was hiding there, and it was also because of his skills and his ability to escape from the authorities. He was captured in this same cave, which was his home and was said to have electrical power and electronic equipment, such as refrigerator and television.

Pilão Cão

One of the municipality's conurbations, nestled in a plateau with good conditions for urban development. It has a particularly cool climate and the area of Ponta Tadju provides a large and beautiful panoramic view over a part of the Ribeira de S. Miguel and Pico de Antonia.

Ribeira de Principal

Located in the extreme west of the municipality of São Miguel, it is one of the 23 existing localities and is known as the Ribeira das Fornadjas, a predominantly agricultural rural area, with a strong tradition in the production of brandy derived from the abundance of sugar cane.

A very green stream, one of the most famous in the island of Santiago, is very rich in endemic flora and fauna, mainly birds. Therefore, it is very sought after by visitors of various nationalities and has strong potential for the development and implementation of tourism in rural and natural areas.

Ribeira dos Flamengos

One of the largest streams on the island of Santiago, it was once an important locality where large landowners lived who left some visible marks, such as the Casa Grande "centre of trapiches and stills". The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is also a heritage site.

Ribeireta

It is the narrowest stream in the municipality, but it has its charm. With the cooperation of the Government of Austria, it has again been covered in green, restocked with water and pedigree animals.

In addition to the natural attractions and agricultural work of the stream itself, one can also visit the St Anthony's Chapel, the primary school and the chapel square.

Gongon and Xaxa

Two of the most beautiful localities in the municipality, located in the extension of Serra da Malagueta. They are green all year round, and the water sprouts from the rock naturally running through the valley towards the Ribeira Principal.

Mangue de Sete Ribeiras Beach

A beautiful bay, where the sea gently penetrates the land inside, giving the place particular potential for camping and bathing tourism. It is one of the natural elements of the municipality proposed in the category of natural monument in the National Network of Protected Areas, due to its scenic value and environmental wealth.

Calhetona Beach

Located at the foot of Calheta, Calhetona beach offers fantastic baths with waves breaking.

Batalha Beach

It is the only beach in Calheta that still has a considerable amount of sand, in a small protected bay. In the summer months, it is much sought after by students on holiday.

Areia Branca Beach

As the name implies, it has already had white sand. Nowadays, it is the favourite beach for young people and adults on weekends or summer days. It is relatively close to the city of Calheta.

Immaterial tourist attractions

The town hall and patron saint's day celebrations are celebrated on the same day. St Michael the Archangel is celebrated in the municipality on two different dates, 8 May and 29 September, because there are two chapels devoted to the same saint, one in Ribeira de São Miguel and the other in Calheta.

The rabelados constitute a social group that has undergone an identity transformation process, unique in the country. Over several decades, from the 1940s to the present, they have severely defended their identity forged in a situation marked by conflicts and disagreements with the Church and the State.

Today they are more open to visitors and in some places they have developed handicraft projects, especially in painting and pottery, and have agreed on programmes to improve their living conditions and to make their characteristic way of life more widely known, much admired by national and foreign visitors.

Material cultural attractions

Calheta de São Miguel Parish Church

Built in 1953, it was only inaugurated in 1965. It was built by the Swiss priest Mr. Cretaz, who began his mission in the country in 1947. Initially he lived in the Mother Church in Ribeira de São Miguel, but due to the poor hygiene conditions and many mosquitoes he moved to Calheta where he built the new Mother Church.

With this transfer of location from the parish church, the legend was born that the patron saint, because he did not feel at home in the new facilities, always appeared on the outskirts of the church of Ribeira de São Miguel. Therefore, the priest decided to buy another image of the patron saint in Portugal. Thus St Michael gained two churches with the same name. In Ribeira de São Miguel the festival takes place on 8 May, while in Calheta it takes place on 29 September, a date that also became the day of the municipality, after its creation in 1996.

Chapel of Nª Senhora do Socorro

Located in Achada Pizarra, it faces the Ribeira dos Flamengos and at one time the contiguous areas served as a cemetery, as in the case of the famine of the 1920's. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Help, whose feast is celebrated on 15 August. Its architecture is characteristic Filipino and, according to some local elderly people, it was built over 300 years ago.

Chapel of Santo António

It is a small chapel with a beautiful adjacent square covered with hoses, located in Ribeireta.

Chapel of Imaculada Conceição

A chapel whose solemn mass is dedicated to water, as it was prayed on 8 December and at that time of the year there was always water running on the stream of the Flemings. It is in the area of Pedra Barro. The architecture is the same as that of N. Sra. do Socorro, and it seems that they were built at the same time, although it is more degraded. Inside there is a cover that covers a grave.

Mato Correia Chapel

Recently built in the town of Mato Correia, this new chapel does not yet have a patron saint, but it is considered a pilgrimage centre, where you can enjoy a beautiful view over most of the municipality of São Miguel.

Trapiches

Like the other municipalities on the island of Santiago, São Miguel is also home to this equipment which is used to crush sugar cane. In the municipality there are four traditional trapiches, i.e. powered by animal power, mainly the ox: one in Ribeira de São Miguel and three in Ribeira Principal, Mato Dentro, Gongon and Xaxa.

The Cemeteries of São Miguel

In the municipality there are three cemeteries: the first to be built was that of Ponta Verde and later, possibly at the beginning of the last century, they built that of S. Miguel in Casa Branca, over the local spring which supplied the population, which generated much controversy at the time. In these two cemeteries there are several important figures of the municipality and people buried on the occasion of the fatalities that occurred in 1920 and 1947, with drought and famine; later, a third cemetery was built this time in the northern area of Achada Bolanha, after much insistence from the northern inhabitants, because of the great distance they were subject to for the burial of the corpses.

Levada de Apertado.

This is a very old legendary work, built on a very steep rocky slope, of difficult access. That is why they say it was built by the demons overnight. It is in Pedra Serrado.

Port of Calheta

It was the main port of the municipality, performing for a long time the commercial and administrative function. Many cabotage ships from all the islands of the country anchored in this bay, bringing medicines, fabrics, animals, and bringing back supplies from agriculture, animals, hides, etc. The exchanges with the island of Maio were very intense.

Mangue de Sete Ribeiras Port

Located south of Achada Monte, it performed the same functions as the port of Calheta for the northern area. There, in a shore right by the sea, lived the well-known merchant Calisto Correia. This area had a quite considerable settlement, but with the successive floods the population eventually moved all to Achada Monte.

It is a beautiful black sand bay with calm waters located at the mouth of the Mangue and Areia Branca streams. It has a strong potential for tourism due to three environments that surround it, the town of Achada Monte, the two aforementioned streams and the sea and easy access by the main road.

Feast of São Miguel Arcanjo and Municipality Day

Rabelados de São Miguel

The rabelados constitute a social group that has undergone an identity transformation process, unique in the country. For several decades, from the 1940s to the present, they have severely defended their forged identity at a time marked by conflicts and disagreements with the Church and the State. Today they are more open to visitors and in some places they have developed handicraft projects, especially in painting and pottery, and have agreed on programmes to improve their living conditions and to make their characteristic way of life more widely known, much admired by national and foreign visitors.

In the municipality there are rabelados communities in Espinho Branco, Bacio, Monte Santo and Palha Carga, being the largest of all. They built their villages in mountains and places of difficult access so that they could flee the power of the State and not relate with the other social groups of the island.

The concern for the environment has been remarkable in recent times, considering the proportions of environmental impacts on people's conditions and quality of life.

Although there are high quality landscapes in São Miguel, there are activities that have led to environmental degradation in the municipality, especially in the city of Calheta.

The hydrographic network of the municipality consists essentially of springs, wells, boreholes, galleries, catchments and streams, important territorial management units taking into account that most of the agricultural economic activity revolves around water resources. However, it can be seen that the resources existing in the basins have been intensively exploited, in some cases exceeding their exploitation limit, endangering the food and socio-economic needs of the populations.

The extraction of aggregates in inadequate places (despite its prohibition by legislation), namely sand extraction, has led to the degradation of the coast. The degradation of the coast has its harmful effects on the spawning of turtles which have one of their favourite sites in Calheta de S. Miguel.

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Municipality of Tarrafal

Tarrafal was created in the beginning of the 20th century, when two parishes north of the former municipality of Santa Catarina were separated to form the municipality of Tarrafal.

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The historical evolution of the municipality of Tarrafal, one of the oldest in Cape Verde, is closely linked to the process of the administrative division of Cape Verde in general and of Santiago Island in particular.

In 1834 this region then called the parish of Tarrafal was confined to the municipality of Santa Catarina and, from the following years the headquarters of this municipality was located alternately between Picos, Achada Falcão and Tarrafal (1869 - 1912).

After the independence of Cape Verde in 1975, the county was administered by a Government Delegate. In 1991, the first Mayor of Tarrafal was elected. Since the 80's, the municipality has experienced a disproportionate and disordered growth, as a result of a massive spatial mobility of the population and the absence of territorial management instruments (Planning and Territorial Planning Plans).

Creation

The municipality of Tarrafal was created by the Decree - Law nº 3108, published in the Official Bulletin nº 3, of 25th April 1917, grouping the parishes of Santo Amaro Abade and São Miguel Arcanjo, with headquarters in the "village" of Tarrafal, remaining this administrative configuration until 1997, the year in which the municipality of São Miguel was created, and the municipality of Tarrafal now covers only the territory of Santo Amaro Abade.

In 1936 the Concentration Camp of Tarrafal was created with the purpose of receiving political prisoners and it was legally closed in 1954. Called the Slow Death Camp, it practiced physical and mental torture. In the 1970s, the construction of the Serra Malagueta road linking Assomada and Tarrafal contributed decisively to the development of the municipality by improving the quality of accessibility.

The capital of the Municipality of Tarrafal was elevated to the category of city in 2010 through the Law nº77/VII/2010, although at the time it was already a village with the characteristics of an urban centre. The city government is assumed by the City Council in the terms of the Statute of the Municipalities, defined by the Law nº134/IV/95 of July 3rd, which gives to the Municipalities wide management powers over their territory, including housing, sanitation, environment, security, health and education.

Geographic location

The city of Tarrafal de Santiago is located on the coastline northwest of the island of Santiago, with its central core installed on the southern cliff of the Tarrafal bay. It corresponds to an open mesh city, a small centre of aligned and paved streets, a vast halo dominated by low, unpaved buildings and diffuse alignment.

The centre of the town of Tarrafal was installed on a coastal plain on a cliff in front of the bay of Tarrafal, where there would be mangroves at the mouth of the river. This location would have justified its choice for the headquarters of the municipality of Santa Catarina at the end of the 19th century, as the principle that guided the extinction of the Ribeira Grande de Santiago municipality was to establish a new division of the island having as headquarters two ports, respectively at the southern end of the island where the town of Praia de Santa Maria (city of Praia) and at the northern end of Tarrafal was located.

Population

With an area of 112.4 Km2, and a population of 18,565 inhabitants in 2010, the municipality of Tarrafal had a density of 165 inhabitants/Km2, higher than the national average of 122 inhabitants/Km2, despite representing only 3.8% of the total national residents. Population growth was and 0.4% between 2000 and 2010, the female population represented 62.7% of residents in 2010. At the same date 33.3% of the population lived in urban centres and 66.7% in rural areas.

The municipality of Tarrafal has little diversity in terms of economic activities, with dry farming being dominant. Some irrigation, livestock farming, traditional fishing, trade, construction and public works are the main means of subsistence of its population. The seasonal nature of rain-fed agriculture and the insertion of a large part of the territory into arid areas increases the vulnerability of the population, creating a great dependency on occasional work, emergency work fronts, etc.

By the year 2000, the primary sector comprised 42.6% of the population, 28.5% female and 14.2% male. The secondary sector with 15.4%, the tertiary sector occupying 39.3% of the population, with emphasis on trade, various services, tourism. The private sector occupies more than half (55.3%) of the population. Poverty covered 44.2% of the population in 2000.

Agriculture

The majority of the population lives from agricultural activity. According to the INE (Census 2000) about 33% of the population of Tarrafal lived from this activity in 2000. According to the same source, INE (QUIBB CV - 2006) only 6% of households in the municipality were dependent on this activity in 2006. The most practised agriculture is dry farming, with maize, beans (stone, bongolon econgo), sweet potatoes and cassava being the predominant crops.

Conditioned mainly by the amount of rainfall, the yields are low and the productions are quite random.

Irrigated agriculture is practised in Colonato, Ribeira das Pratas and on a small scale in the areas of Lagoa, Achada Lagoa, Fazenda and Porto Formoso. The most important areas are near the mouth of Ribeira das Pratas and in Colonato de Chão Bom. The latter, benefiting from a soil of high agricultural value (old alluvium) and a favourable location in terms of access and distance from urban and semi-urban centres. Together with Ribeira das Pratas, they constitute the most productive areas of the whole municipality. Dry farming occupies an area of 2,708 hectares.

The total area occupied by irrigation is around 70 hectares. The most important areas are near the mouth of Ribeira da Prata and Colonato de Chão Bom. The latter, benefiting from a soil of high agricultural value (old alluvium) and a favourable location in terms of access, and distance from urban and semi-urban centres. Ribeira Prata and Chão Bom are the most productive areas in the whole municipality. The most common crops are: cassava; cruciferous crops (cabbage and cabbage); sugar cane; sweet potato; common potatoes; fruit trees (mainly mangoes and papayas); paprika.

As for hydro-agricultural infrastructures, the municipality has a considerable network of devices, namely: retention and water catchment dams, reservoirs and levadas, which together with soil and water conservation works (stools, walls, boilers) constitute an aggregate of environmental protection throughout the municipality.

The farms in the municipality are all irrigated with groundwater, mostly using the pipe as the main device.

Livestock

With regard to livestock activity, according to the 2004 Agricultural Census data, Tarrafal has a livestock potential characterised by exclusively small family holdings complemented by agricultural activity.

The method of raising livestock is free, the animals are loose in the finds feeding mainly on spontaneous vegetation that appears during the rainy season. The constraints related to this activity are related to the marketing of livestock products, processing, supply of production factors, technical assistance, preservation of the genetic potential of the breeds, free grazing, health, animal nutrition and maintenance of the herd.

The municipality of Tarrafal even had livestock as the most important activity and the Coat of Arms of the municipality in the colonial period had the timbre of cattle. However, this activity declined throughout the 20th century in years of successive droughts and limitation of grazing areas also associated with population growth.

It should be noted that livestock farming is a complementary and integrated activity in agriculture, as is the case throughout the island of Santiago, and it is rare for peasants to devote themselves exclusively to livestock farming. Of the 2854 farms in 2004, 91.2% had livestock as a complement. It is, however, an important source of protein in food and, above all, a reserve of financial resources for households.

Industry

The municipality of Tarrafal does not have an industrial area where people can work.

Tarrafal's industrial activity is very small, with small private enterprises standing out, such as carpentry workshops, locksmith's shops, bakeries, block yards, auto mechanic's workshops and sheet metal working. Carpentry workshops and beauty salons are the most numerous enterprises, followed by sawmills. To a lesser extent, there are the carpentry/knock shops and block yards, both with 4 units.

The industrial sector is characterised by some constraints within which the weak organisation of companies, poor capacity to market products, high production costs, limited consumer market, low purchasing power, lack of qualified personnel and the location of industrial units in inadequate spaces can be highlighted.

Trade

Trade is a very lively economic activity in the urban and semi-urban centres of the island of Santiago, with an emphasis on informal trade involving a large number of sellers, especially women. As is the case in the headquarters of the municipalities, trade is downstream from imports, but it also associates fair activity with the sale of agricultural, livestock and fishing products, handicrafts and traditional gastronomy.

Recent changes have introduced the sale of imported plastic materials, clothes, shoes, perfumery and trinkets, with the proliferation of sales in the squares and streets. The informal sector has made it difficult for the administration to strictly control the sector, but its importance is recognised by the population involved and external signs of well-being shown by its practitioners.

In the municipality of Tarrafal, as in several other parts of the country, informal commerce involves the female population more, both for agricultural products and for clothing and household materials. This sector is mainly dominated by small grocery businesses and some travelling sales of products ranging from fish, fresh and processed agricultural products, handicraft items, clothing, footwear, among others.

Among the types of commercial establishments, the grocery shops stand out in the greatest number, in the second position are the bars and bars/restaurants. In other localities of the municipality there are small commercial units of basic goods.

Fishing

Fishing, especially small-scale fishing, is an important activity in the municipality's economy, with several traditional boat trawling ports within the municipality's perimeter. The most important ports are Porto de Mangue in the green bay, Chão Bom and Ribeira das Pratas. According to data for 2001, in the municipality of Tarrafal 531 families were engaged in fishing. Most of them use small open boats with small engines. The fish is almost exclusively commercialised in the municipality.

Fishing is after agriculture the most important activity in the primary sector. The necessary development in the fisheries sector involves improving the factors of production, conservation and distribution of fish. Deep-sea fishing is almost non-existent and artisanal fishing is becoming less and less productive.

The construction of a fishing wharf in Chão Bom could contribute to the development of artisanal and industrial fishing in the municipality. Similarly, with the increase in tourism and the increased demand for seafood products, fishing could become more dynamic, increasing the sector's income and thus contributing to the improvement of the living conditions of the populations in this sector of activity.

Tourism and related activities such as hotels and restaurants have gained a certain expression in the last decades of the 20th century, but the lack of investment and modernisation have left Tarrafal behind in the competition with the emergence of other islands such as Sal and Boa Vista.

It is, however, an area of great potential due to the quality of its beaches, diversity of landscapes, available heritage resources and abundant youth labour. Tourism is the priority economic activity, given the potential of the municipality.

Natural tourist attractions

The municipality of Tarrafal as far as natural resources are concerned presents a great diversity of landscapes, flora and fauna of the island of Santiago, highlighting the Tarrafe (Senegalese Tamarix) from which the name of the town originated due to the abundance in times of this shrub and some palm trees, the bird (Halcyon leucocephala), the Sugarcane Tchota (Acrocephalus brevipennis) and the Coconut Tchota (Passer hispaniolensis).

Natural Park of Serra Malagueta

The total area of the PNSM covers the territories of three municipalities on the island of Santiago, São Miguel, Santa Catarina and Tarrafal. The latter has the smallest plot, 36 hectares, which represents 4.5%, corresponding only to the areas of Lagoa and Achada Lagoa.

According to the ecotourism team of the Natural Park, both in the area of the park and in the buffer zone there are natural and socio-cultural conditions and values that offer remarkable potential for the development of ecotourism, mainly in its components of nature, rural, cultural, adventure and scientific tourism.

Monte Graciosa

Located in the northern part of the municipality, it is the highest elevation and third highest peak on the island of Santiago, with a maximum height of 645 metres.

It is the only point in the municipality that has samples of native natural vegetation, such as tortolho, gestiba, rosemary bravo, watercress and marmulano, so the local PDM proposes its integration in the network of protected areas of the country, in the category of Natural Park.

Monte Achada Grande

This reddish-coloured volcanic cone, with a surface of 66.5 ha, is located in Achada Grande and is a municipal landscape reference. In geological terms, it is made up of pyroclastic (jorra) and slag from the formation of Monte das Vacas, which gives it great infiltration, fundamental for the feeding of aquifers, representing one of the main areas of high infiltration in the municipality.

Monte Costa

In the shape of a ramp, it rises over the found coast, reaching an altitude of about 300 meters and a surface of 153.4ha. This pyroclastic cone stands out in the landscape in a remarkable way for its beauty.

City of Tarrafal

The main administrative centre of the municipality, it has several potential singularities for the development of local tourism, both in cultural aspects, the entire historical centre as well as other buildings scattered throughout the city with historical and cultural value, such as in the environmental and landscape aspects, the Graciosa mountain, the beaches with coconut trees and different endemism’s of the flora and fauna of the country, and also in terms of tourist entertainment activities, such as discos, the cineteatro, good typical restaurants, small lively bars with local music, the physical maintenance park, among others.

Chão Bom

It represents the second population centre of the municipality, a few kilometres from the city of Tarrafal, where three main attractions stand out: the Museum of Resistance of a cultural order, the Colonato, the Bay and the Ribeira Grande de Chão Bom, of a natural order.

Ribeira da Prata

By car from Chão Bom it takes less than 15 minutes to reach Ribeira das Pratas, but also walking or cycling are good options to go there, because it does not require much effort and you can always count on the refreshing breeze of the sea, as the path goes around the coast.

It is a place known for its black sand beaches with coconut trees by the sea, such as Ribeira das Pratas Beach, where turtles lay their eggs regularly and for its landscape, which extends from Curral de Salina, Achadinha and Cutelo Branco to Caldeira de Maria Sevilha (caldera of an extinct volcano, the largest in the whole island). The route is very impressive when you go around the caldera, which has one particularity: its base is below sea level.

The main economic activities are fishing, agriculture and cattle raising, which gives the place potential for the development of tourism in rural areas, taking advantage of the houses of the places to house the visitors, contributing especially to the increase of the income of the resident families.

Figueira Muita

From Ribeira das Pratas one climbs to Figueira Muita on an asphalt road, providing excellent panoramas of the three main communities in the municipality of Tarrafal - Ribeira das Pratas, Chão Bom and the city of Tarrafal - as well as its majestic valleys, especially that which separates it from Achada Meio

Achada Meio

It is a small village that is difficult to reach, by a dirt road, from Figueira Muita or even from Serra da Malagueta. However, the town compensates the visitor with a unique panoramic view and covers most of the municipality. Although with few of the usual tourist attractions, Achada Meio has a rare natural beauty and a unique climate, excellent for mountain lovers. The local population lives from agriculture and cattle raising.

Curral Velho

A small town that lies on a hill at the foot of Serra da Malagueta, borders the municipality of Santa Catarina and is one of the largest viewpoints over the municipality of Tarrafal. It has a cool climate and takes advantage of its strategic mountain position and proximity to the main road that connects the municipality of Tarrafal to Santa Catarina and other points on the island of Santiago.

Trás-os-Montes

As it was once the seat of local government, it is considered the "Cradle of Tarrafal" and has been an important point of traditional pottery and weaving with the production of various pieces of clay and the famous pano di bitchu.

The present chapel of S. José, which in 1909 functioned as the headquarters of the Institute for the Formation of Internal and External Pupils, guided by the congregation Sisters of the Poor, was also the first Mother Church of Santo Amaro Abade, patron saint of the parish.

Fazenda

Hidden behind the highest hill in the municipality, Graciosa, the relatively small population of this locality is engaged in fishing, agriculture and cattle raising. According to the oldest inhabitants of the area and the reports of the people of the municipality, this was once one of the most important ports of Santiago, where various products were landed to supply the island. More recently, it has become well known for the mass grave that was found with large numbers of human bones, of unknown causes.

The bay of the farm attracts many diving lovers for the variety of species that inhabit these waters.

Achada Moirão

It is a place that has in its people, in the wonderful panoramic views that can be enjoyed to the bottom of the valleys and in some uninhabited villages like Belém, Chão de Capela, Ribeirão Carrasco, Tamareira and Água de Garça, without a doubt, the greatest local attraction.

Lagoa and Achada Lagoa

The community of Lagoa is a small village, almost uninhabited, made up of graceful typical houses, concentrated at the bottom of the stream. Before arriving at this village, sultanas and in the middle of agricultural crops and under high cliffs, where you can see monkeys, who in these places of difficult access, find shelter to hide from the people. It is also these rocky escarpments that host several and rare endemic plants of great natural value, many of which are used in traditional medicine.

On a gentle and safe path you reach Lagoa, as you approach the first houses the stream seems to swallow its visitors inside its high and majestic basaltic slopes.

From here there is another path that goes to the community of Achada Lagoa, constituted by some scattered traditional houses and interesting sceneries can be observed over the Ribeira de Lagoa and Mount Quinto, which is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience of passage.

Springs

In the municipality there are some small lagoons and springs, especially the springs of Achada Lagoa, Lagoa, Mato Brasil and Pedra Empena which are a real blessing for its people, as well as for the development of local agriculture and rural tourism in its different aspects.

Ribeira de Fontão and Baía do Tarrafal

This is one of the most important streams in the municipality. Upstream there are two furnaces which prove that for a long time the limestone outcrops have been exploited for the manufacture of lime. Furthermore, the existence of fossiliferous limestones in this area may arouse some interest in research and studies. Both the semi-submerged basaltic cliffs complex of Ponta d'Atum, and the white sand beaches and the monumental cliffs of Ponta Preta give to the Tarrafal Bay a beauty and complexity that is unique in the whole country.

Ribeira Grande of Chão Bom

The Ribeira Grande hydrographic basin is located on the west façade, stretches from the Serra Malagueta massif to the Chão Bom waterfront and covers an area of 23.44 km, crossing the wet, sub-humid and arid zones. It reaches altitudes above 800 metres. It is the second largest on the island, just after Pico de Antonia.

In the area of this basin there are about 35 infrastructures and water equipment (torrential dikes, boreholes, springs and reservoirs). In all its extension, dry farming is practised, and near the mouth of the river, in the area of Colonato, irrigation farming is practised. In terms of water potential, this basin is the most important in the municipality because, among other reasons, it is born in one of the main drainage networks of the island of Santiago, Sierra Malagueta. There are also other streams such as the Ribeira de Lebrão, de Fundão, de Cuba, Ribeirão Sal, Ribeira da Fazenda, etc.

Ponta D'Atum Beach

On the west side of Tarrafal bay is Ponta de Atum beach, famous for the magnificent waves for Surfing and Body Boarding and where a stage of the national championship of these two water sports takes place.

Ribeira das Pratas Beach

On the last curve of the road that connects Chão Bom to Ribeira das Pratas, the black sandy beach turns out to be completely inviting. During the right periods one can observe the spawning of sea turtles which can be used for tourist purposes and protection of these animals and the beach itself.

Fazenda Beach

A beach with difficult access, but seen by local decision-makers as one of the tourist attractions with strong potential in the municipality, and for this reason, the necessary measures are being outlined for its inclusion in the tourist route of the destination Tarrafal.

Maria Sibidja Volcanic Crater (Seville)

The Maria Sibidja caldera (Seville) is located in the Ribeira das Pratas area and is one of the best preserved volcanic forms on the island of Santiago, with an area of 17.6 ha. Besides being an area with geological and geomorphological values, it is also a habitat for animal and plant species of great importance.

Pedra Empena

Through a tortuous stone path, right at the foot of the majestic Mount Graciosa, one can find a spectacle deserving of the greatest praise and visits, "Pedra M'Pena", a cluster of large stones, arranged in the form of mosaics, forming a whole of difficult description.

At the foot of the larger stone, the "M'Pena Stone", disguised by smaller stones, hides the source of local life: a natural, crystalline water spring, which the local population consumes.

Cultural tourist attractions

Tchada Baxu Cemetery

It seems bizarre, but the Tarrafal Cemetery - in Tchada Baxu (Achada Baixo) - should be included in the tourist itinerary, since it is closely linked to the former Concentration Camp, where anti-fascists from Portugal, Germany, Spain, Poland and the former Portuguese colonies were imprisoned. In the cemetery, one can see the graves of 37 Portuguese anti-fascists, including that of the founder and leader of the Portuguese Communist Party, Bento Gonçalves, whose remains were transferred to Portugal in the late 1980s - last century.

Municipal Square

This public space located in the historic centre of the city is characterised by its scenic and colourful beauty and surrounded by a number of the municipality's oldest historic buildings, presented below, all built in the 1930s.

It is in a good state of conservation and, especially in the summer, numerous activities are held, such as radio square, poetry declamations and small musical competitions.

Paço do Concelho

Also erected in 1935, it was the object of intervention with remodelling works in 2004, partly preserving its original architecture. It is the building that houses the administrative power at local level and is in good condition.

Museum of Resistance (Ex. Concentration Camp)

Created in 1936, by Law 26:539 of 23 April, as a penal colony for political and social prisoners, it truly functioned as a concentration camp that enclosed everyone who opposed the Salazar dictatorship and let them die of starvation, without the minimum hygienic conditions and exposed to the sun and malaria.

Built in the area of Chão Bom, after a first phase, 1936 to 1954 - where it received only Portuguese prisoners, who surpassed a hundred - it began to receive nationalists from the Portuguese colonies. In its 38 years of operation, in which it also served as a prison for prisoners of common crime, in addition to individuals of other European nationalities, it passed through the "slow death camp", as it was also known due to the precarious conditions of imprisonment and increased sentences, 340 Portuguese and 230 Africans, including 20 Cape Verdeans.

Outside the prison enclosure there was a torture chamber called - Frigideira or Segredo, described as a cement cubicle, asphyxiating, of small size, with an iron door, devoid of any furniture except two buckets, one for water and the other for necessities, where the prisoners were put to bread and water for days and at the mercy of mosquitoes, so that those who left went directly to the infirmary, if not to the cemetery. The "slow death camp" was officially closed on 1 May 1974 with the Carnation revolution in Portugal and after 1975 it became a military barracks and training centre.

Central School

Located in the municipal square, it was erected in 1935. It stands out for its colonial style and for being the first school in the municipality. Colonial style architecture, it is in a bad state of conservation, requiring some interventions.

Municipal Culture Market

Surrounding the municipal square, it was built in 1935 and recently refurbished but the original layout of its main façade has been retained.

The old municipal market is now the scene of various cultural and recreational activities, taking the name of Municipal Market of Culture and transferring the activities of the first market to the new building built at the entrance of the city of Tarrafal. The building in question has a profound historical and patrimonial value for the population of the municipality and is in good condition.

Material cultural attractions

Old Customs

Located just a few metres from the fishing wharf of Tarrafal Bay, at the rear provides a rich and majestic view over Mangue beach, the Ribeira do Fontão and Graciosa mountain.

It was built in 1941 and played an important role until the 70s. It is a unique building due to its typically colonial architecture and is characterised by its prismatic straight volume, rectangular plan and sloping roofs of four waters (scissors' roofs). It is in a poor state of conservation, but it can and must be attributed some use, as it is located in a strategic point of the city and has a grandiose structure.

Slaughterhouse next to Praia do Presidente

Built in 1940, it is only a few metres from "Praia do Presidente". It has never worked and is in a state of degradation. According to the local PDM, its requalification, keeping the original moth will pass through the change of use, linked to recreation and leisure along the coast.

Fontenário next to the house Narina and Fontenário for the green space

Located in the centre of the city, they were one of the first fountains in the municipality, built in 1961. They are degraded and can be one of the main reasons for the rehabilitation of the wide ones where they are located.

Ponta Preta and Ponta Moreira Lighthouses

Buildings that serve maritime navigation, have a high scenic value due to their architecture and magnificence in the landscape, but require interventions and restoration work, as they are in poor condition.

Silo do Colonato

Built in 1960, it lies in the area of Colonato de Chão Bom. It played a fundamental role, especially during periods of great drought, as it was and still is the only pasture conservation area in the municipality of Tarrafal. It is vacant and in a bad state of conservation.

Trapiche

Sugar cane crushing plant, more frequent in rural areas and traditionally driven by animal traction, usually oxen, to the sound of canga bull to incite the animal.

This product produces the "grogue" - a traditional alcoholic drink of the country - through distillation in an alembic, as well as some derivatives of the grogue and honey. In the municipality there is a motorised trapiche and three stills, all in Colonato de Chão Bom, where they produce a good quality sugar cane grog.

Ribeira das Pratas Chapel

Built in the 1940s, it is located in the Ribeira das Pratas area. It plays an important role in the religious context as a place of worship and on 18 December the feast of Our Lady of Good Hope is celebrated. It is in good condition.

Trás-os-Montes Handicraft Centre

It stands out for the preservation and production of traditional pottery from the municipality of Tarrafal. The clay is extracted from the earth and, by the hands of the potters, the work of art is born. One can find beautiful decorative and domestic utensils produced there and buy original souvenirs.

Ribeira das Pratas Chapel

Nha Bibinha Cabral House

Queen of Finaçon and Batuque, Nha or Mana Bibinha is one of the most legendary figures in the municipality. The small house where she lived can be visited in Monte Iria, on the outskirts of the Mangue village. At present, it serves as a residence for one of his nieces. Before going down to Monte Iria, Mana Bibinha had lived in the fertile Curral de Baixo, today a desert valley. Nha Bibinha passed away on June 14, 1985, at the Dr. Agostinho Neto Hospital in Praia.

Immaterial Cultural Attractions

Nhu Santo Amaro" Party and Municipality Day

Celebrated on January 15 in the Parish Church of the municipality, the feast of "Nhu Santo Amaro" attracts many people from other parts of the country as well as from the outside world. Being the festival of greater prominence, it coincides with the celebrations of the day of the municipality where the Festival of Santo Amaro happens, which is a space of promotion of the culture and the local groups and artists, preferably.

Every year it is a great feast to thank the people of the city, for the protection that the patron saint exercises over the whole municipality and the devotees. On the first day of the year the preparations for what is the biggest party of the city begin, beautifying the streets with flags and animating the square of the city with drumming and funaná.

Rabelados de Tarrafal

In the municipality there are several communities of Rabelados in the localities of Lagoa-Gémea, Lapa Catchor (Cachorro), Bimbirim in Achada Biscainhos and Bicuda.

Batuque Festival

A festival under the organization of Delta Cultura is held annually in the city of Tarrafal, on the first weekend of December and is part of the program of activities of the Festa do Santo Amaro and the municipality of this municipality. Dozens of batuque groups from all over the island of Santiago are invited to participate and give their contribution to the promotion of this santiaguense tradition, which is the main objective of this event. For further promotion and dissemination of the event the responsible group has created a blog on the internet.

Tabanca

It usually takes to the streets in the months of May and June for the feast of Santa Cruz. It is celebrated in the localities of Ponta Achada, Portal, Mato Mendes, Achada Longueira, Chão Bom, Cidade do Tarrafal and Curral Velho. In the municipality it ceased to exist, for no apparent reason, for a certain period before independence, but after 1976, in the locality of Chão Bom a local group was reorganised, sometimes parading in the months already mentioned.

Legend of the White Bride

Mangue beach, Concentration Camp and Monte Graciosa are the three great references of Tarrafal. However, it is with Graciosa that the Tarrafalenses have a more affective relationship.

To the point that the collective imaginary devotes stories and legends to her, among which that of the White Bride. "Legend has it that a Tarrafalian bride, abandoned at the altar, succumbed to despair and humiliation before an entire village. Wounded in pride, she climbed Mt. Graciosa, threw herself into the sea, drowning. Even today, when the moonlight is mirrored in the sea, a kind of aurea is created on that Mount, leading people to believe that it is the glow of the spirit of the unfortunate White Bride, who will come for joy, enjoyment and satisfaction of the Tarrafalense".

Santa Catarina do Fogo Healthy City

In the municipality, forestry has played a major role in combating desertification, rebuilding vegetation cover, meeting energy needs and developing agro-forestry-pastoral production.

For this reason, the delegation from the Ministry for the Environment and Agriculture has paid particular attention to this sector. The Council's forests are made up of species best suited to arid areas, i.e. American acacia (prosopis juliflora). They are located in the arid and semi-arid areas of the great finds, some slopes and valleys. While these forests have solved the domestic energy problem, firewood, on the other hand, in certain areas, such as at the bottom of the valleys and around the irrigated perimeters, is very much contested, especially by farmers.

Protected areas may be of national, regional or local interest, depending on the interests they seek to safeguard. The protected area of the Serra da Malagueta Natural Park has a small percentage (4.5%) within the municipality boundaries.

Municipality of Santa Catarina do Fogo

The municipality of Santa Catarina was created in 2005 and is one of the youngest in the country. It belonged to the old municipality of São Filipe which was divided into two municipalities: S. Filipe and Santa Catarina.

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With its own identity, Cova Figueira, the municipality's headquarters is the largest population and socio-economic centre of expression. It was elevated to the category of Vila by Dec. Law nº. 101/97 of 22 December.

With the creation of the Municipality of Santa Catarina in 2005, Cova Figueira assumed the capitality and started to have a City Council elected for a period of 4 years. It is par excellence the main central place of the Municipality, the seat of the City Council, the decentralized services of the Government, Health, Education and Safety services, has a Secondary School that covers the entire municipality.

Geographic location

The municipality of Santa Catarina is located in the southeast of the island of Fogo in the parish of the same name, occupying an area of approximately 125 Km2 and a resident population of 5,299 inhabitants according to CENSO 2010.

The seat of the municipality is the town of Cova Figueira, located along the main road that connects the city of S. Filipe, capital of the island and the town of Igreja, capital of the municipality of Mosteiros.

Population

According to CENSO 2010, the population of Santa Catarina do Fogo is 5,299, of which 2,596 are male and 2,702 are female. This population is divided into 930 families.

In 2016 the population of Santa Catarina was 5,282, 50.5% male and 49.5% female.

Santa Catarina is a predominantly rural municipality, although its location more or less on the coast attracts people to fishing. The coast is rugged and difficult to access.

Most of the population is employed in the primary sector, namely rain-fed agriculture, extensive livestock farming, and fishing. In some localities, small pockets of irrigated agriculture are beginning to appear, using micro-irrigation.

The secondary sector is still incipient, although some family industries are beginning to appear, in the areas of carpentry, repairs and handicrafts.

With the creation of the municipality, the tertiary sector, namely the public services, is still in the implementation phase.

Agriculture

The agricultural sector is highlighted as one of the most concentrated activities of the population, thus playing a key role in economic development, but it should be noted that the predominance is focused mainly on dry farming, according to MDR data, 91.1% of the population practices dry farming, with a low yield and yields are also quite random, focused on maize and beans. Next we have the irrigated agriculture that is practised in a smaller scale, data from MDR points out only 2.1% of the population practises irrigated agriculture using the drip irrigation system, where they are cultivated beyond maize and beans, varieties in vegetables, legumes and diverse fruits, in the areas of Achada Apoio, Fonte Aleixo, Dacabalaio and Fonte Cabrito.

The most prominent area is Chã das Caldeiras, one of the most privileged areas in the Municipality, where vines and other species are cultivated, which are transformed into wines that are already internationally recognised.

Livestock

According to MDR 2015 data, 86.8% of the population raises livestock, with 0.5% aquaculture associated with agriculture and 18.7% in forestry. It is notable that livestock activity has a strong link with agriculture, since most of those who practice agriculture have livestock as a complementary activity.

The fact that we have a strictly rural Municipality, livestock farming has stood out as one of the sectors of great importance, in addition to the great importance in social and economic development, contributing essentially to the food security of the population.

There is a strong dynamic in this sector, since some years ago production was geared to domestic consumption within families, over the years this sector has gained space and autonomy, small industries have been achieved and today we export to other islands.

The fishing sector contributes considerably to local development, to employment, thus generating several jobs, and to the maintenance of other economic activities. It is also a cultural matrix that should be preserved, not to mention the public supply of fish, contributing with national own resources to minimize the disastrous imbalance in the food balance, and in times of troubled agricultural crisis that the country is going through.

The municipality of Santa Catarina do Fogo is one of the most beautiful regions of Fogo, possessing a diversity of natural colours - characteristic of its vegetation - and imposing mountains that give it a unique beauty.

Allied to its natural potentialities, namely agriculture, the municipality has an enormous tourist potential that is still to be discovered, not only in the beauty of its volcano, its nooks and crannies, but also in the culture and traditions of its people.

The municipality of Santa Catarina of the most diverse potentialities and opportunities in the tourist sector we can highlight the magnificent landscape marked by its orography, the landscape diversity marked by the presence of the only active volcano in the country, the edge, the forest perimeter, the natural park, the cones, the volcanic lavas columns, among the endemic species, as well as its history, music, gastronomy, finally a range of options and varieties of tourist products.

And notable an increase in the entrance of tourists in Santa Catarina do Fogo, the most attractive point is the locality of Chã das Caldeiras with a varied range in the diversification of the tourist offer in this way registered if with permanent entrance of tourists in these sites.

Natural Attractions

Chã das Caldeiras

The area of Chã das Caldeiras is located north of the island of Fogo and integrates the group of natural resources of the municipality of São Filipe. It is a depression with about 2 km wide, covered with lava flows and pyroclastic materials resulting from several volcanic eruptions, the last one having occurred in November 2014.

Pico do Fogo

Pico do Fogo is a natural monument, located in the north of the island, between the municipalities of S. Filipe, Mosteiros and Santa Catarina. It presents a dissimetry whose centre is a little moved to the northeast. In geomorphological terms it is characterized by an abrupt descent towards the northeast, where the municipalities of Mosteiros and Santa Catarina are located, and smoother towards the southwest and south.

It has an altitude of about 2 829 metres, with a huge crater at its top. Around the main cone one can see several adventitious cones, lava flows and pyroclastic materials of predominantly basalt nature that witness the various volcanic eruptions that have ravaged the island, the last one having occurred in November 2014.

This monument still maintains the natural features of its building, which is why it is in good condition. On the other hand, the use for climbing, contemplation, scientific studies or photography sessions have not caused any negative impact on its configuration, which demonstrates that they are compatible activities.

Pico do Fogo, Northeast Vertente

Pico do Fogo is a natural attraction located north of the island of Fogo, more specifically, west of the municipality of Santa Catarina, about 20 km from the city of Cova Figueira.

In the north-western part of the peak, a black landscape stands out, resulting from the various lava flows as a result of the numerous volcanic eruptions on the island contrasting with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the green of the agricultural fields.

It is these striking features that make it a unique landscape when compared to other parts of the island.

Monte Preto

It is a geological monument located between Figueira Pavão and Baluarte de Cima in the middle of this municipality.

The black colour, the morphology and the presence of pyroclastic materials testify to its volcanic origin and therefore constitutes another geosite of this municipality.

Ribeira Nha Lena

The Ribeira de Nha Lena is born at the foot of the volcano, in the northwest slope, confluent with the Ribeira Campo Pico whose mouth is the tip of Antoninha. It is a narrow and extensive stream with about 30 meters wide and 20 to 30 meters high and which increases in depth towards the mouth.

Ponte Queimada Beach

It is a beach located near the area of Bombardeiro which is popularly known as "Recanto de Ponta Queimada". It is a small, sheltered beach with black and fine sand and crystal clear water. The fact that it is an isolated and cantoned beach, with a predominance of lava flows around it, makes this place, an attractive and unique landscape.

Praia Grande (Big Beach)

It is a beach located south of the municipality of Santa Catarina which is about 3 km away from the city of Cova Figueira.

It is a beach of great extension, if compared with others existing in this municipality. It has black and fine sand, crystal clear water and no signs of pollution in sight and it is there that most of the turtles of this island spawn. These characteristics give it singularities and make it a potential tourist attraction.

Alcatraz Bay

Alcatraz bay is a geographical accident located south of the municipality of Santa Catarina, about 7 km from the city of Cova Figueira, near the area of Estância Aleixo, between Ponta Belcher and Ponta do Alcatraz.

It is a semi-circular bay, of great extension, with several recesses and deep waters, which allowed the construction of Alcatraz's port. All around it stands out a landscape marked by a mantle of lava flows, black and brownish which gives it an attractive scenic beauty. It also has a cliff that is one more element that harmonizes this landscape.

Serra de Bordeira

It is a hemicycle, i.e. "half moon" with a diameter of about 9 km, opening to the east whose highest points are to the west. This geomorphological heritage is bounded to the west by semicircular escarpments - the Serra da Bordeira - about 1 000 m high.

In its interior it is compared to an "abrupt wall" with a peak fall that is still under construction.

Along the route towards the Serra da Bordeira there is a typical microclimate of the mountainous areas which varies in characteristics, the most striking being the decrease in temperature due to the effect of altitude.

Historical and cultural resources

City of Cova Figueira

The City of Cova Figueira is located in the municipality of Santa Catarina and borders the other two municipalities of the island. It is an old town that gained the status of city in 2010, consisting of a small urban settlement that developed along the road that crosses it and connects it to the other municipalities.

In urban terms it is a longitudinal profile town, stretching along the eastern slope of the peak of the Volcano. The historical-cultural elements which stand out there are the two churches and the cemetery, so it is one more crossing point to Chã das Caldeiras.

The City of Cova Figueira is located very close to a still active volcano. The risks are imminent in the frame of the eruptions, by the manifestation of earthquakes and lava flows.

There is a seismological surveillance service that monitors the volcanic activity with equipment installed in Chã-das-Caldeiras. However, the management of volcanic risks is assured by the National Service of Civil Protection and has a national scope.

Another potential risk is the drought which, in the past, will have decimated thousands of people. The drought is monitored systematically by the government's various central services covering Civil Protection, the Social Protection Services, the Food Security Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health. In the recent period, cases of drought have been mitigated through emergency programmes that have created jobs to help the affected peasants, the distribution of water by autotankers, etc.

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Municipality of Mosteiros

The Mosteiros Council was created in 1991 by Law No. 23/IV/91 of 30 December 1991, which came into force on 2 January 1992.

Mosteiros Healthy City

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Like the municipality of São Filipe, the settlement of the Mosteiros was linked to pastoral farming production. It is a predominantly agricultural municipality, whose dominant crops are: coffee, grapes, cotton and purple.

Cotton production has enabled the textile industry to develop, particularly in the manufacture of cloths. Fogo's coffee and wine ("Manecon" and other brands), produced in Mosteiros and Chã das Caldeiras respectively, have been a business card of the island and one of the most exported products.

Creation

The Mosteiros Council was created in 1991 by Law No. 23/IV/91 of 30 December 1991, which came into force on 2 January 1992. However, it must be said that the municipal vocation and the historical-administrative tradition of Mosteiros predate 1991. It was created in 1917 by decree no. 3 108-B of 25 June and in 1974 by Provincial Decree no. 10 of 11 July.

Geographic Location

The municipality of Mosteiros is located north of the island of Fogo and occupies an area of 85 Km2. It is limited to the North and East by the coast, to the West by the municipality of São Filipe and to the South by the municipality of Santa Catarina. It is a municipality created in 1991, through Law nº 23/ IV/9, II series of December 30. The Municipality of Mosteiros has only one parish, Nossa Senhora da Ajuda, which is divided into 16 localities: Church Village, Queimada-Guincho, Mosteiros-Trás, Fajãzinha, Feijoal, Ribeira do Ilhéu, Sumbango, Murro, Rocha-Fora/Ligeirão, Atalaia, CovaFeijoal, Pai-António, Cutelo-Alto, Corvo, Achada-Grande and Grass.

The Municipality of Mosteiros has 476km2 of surface and presents the almost circular form. Most of the Mosteiros territory is covered with lavas resulting from a series of volcanic eruptions that have taken place over time, of different ages in terms of staggering and tone.

In geomorphological terms the municipality is characterised by the existence of deep valleys, with steep slopes and cut by ravines. The coastal cliffs are abrupt, with considerable unevenness, with the exception of the area of Fajãzinha and some beaches, where lowered platforms contiguous to the seafront are defined.

Only the locality of Fajã in Mosteiros has a relatively flat surface. The surfaces of the surrounding hillsides are carved by beds of several streams, sometimes quite deep.

Due to its geomorphological characteristics, altitude and the disposition of the prevailing winds, Mosteiros has its own climatic characteristics, especially the microclimates. Due to its orographic aspect, there is a predominance of arid and semi-arid microclimates which, as the altitude increases, the rainfall increases and, consequently, the aridity decreases.

The part of the coast is arid, unlike the high zone where there is a vast forest area within the wet zone. In general terms, the municipality of Mosteiros covers the areas: arid on the coastal strip, semi-arid on the sub coastal strip and sub-humid on the higher areas (inventory of tourist resources).

Population

The municipality of Mosteiros has a resident population of 9,336 inhabitants, corresponding to 1.8% of the population of Cape Verde and 26.2% of the population of the island of Fogo, which constitutes a population density of approximately 110 inhabitants/Km2, of which 48.1% are male and 51.9% female. The average age is 27.8 years, 27.5 years for men and 31.1 years for women, below the national average (29 years). The masculinity index is in the order of 92.5%, below the national index which is 100.5%.

It should be noted that according to INE's 2010-2030 demographic projections, our municipality has a natural growth rate of 1.24%, with an average annual growth rate of -0.3% and an average life expectancy at birth of 71.8 years for men and 80 years for women (Mosteiros territorial diagnosis).

Unemployment is a structural problem for our economy and, as such, presupposes integrated policy measures among the country's main economic development stakeholders, primarily the government, local authorities and the private sector. In particular, in the municipality of Mosteiros, although the unemployment rate is below the national average, unemployment is still a social problem and requires public policies aimed at mitigating it.

Agriculture/Forestry

Agriculture is the basis of the Mosteiros' economy. Non-irrigated agriculture predominates, both in the lowlands and on the upper floors, dominating the smallholding crops, on small plots, often surrounded by a loose stone wall. Irrigated crops are grown on small plots, which have been greatly increased by the installation of mains water.

Within the framework of the ecological conditions of the island of Fogo, the Monastery Council has good agricultural potential due to the existence of microclimates, favourable to fruit growing, legumes, livestock and forestry.

Viticulture is an image of the agricultural revolution in Mosteiros and on the island of Fogo. There is a cooperative winery in Chã-das-Caldeiras that was modernized with the help of an Italian NGO and with the support of the German Technical Cooperation.

The irrigation system, with the use of drip irrigation, is an alternative to the improvement of people's living conditions. However, the high cost of irrigation water is a major obstacle.

In the past, coffee-growing was one of the main income generating activities of Mosteiros and the island of Fogo. Today there is a Coffee Peeling, Roasting and Packing Plant in Fogo.

Forestry has received special attention from the City Council and the Central Government. The forest perimeter of Monte-Velha situated at one thousand metres of altitude constitutes one of the largest forest perimeters in the country, having been created at the end of the forties of the 20th century, it has a plan for the renewal of plants and the forest belt has grown in recent years with new plantations in the rainy season.

Livestock

Livestock farming is a complementary activity to agriculture, cattle, goats, pigs and poultry are the species to which farmers pay the greatest attention. There is a strong tradition of producing cheese, especially goats, for the market.

Trade

The private sector is increasingly playing a key role in today's economies, with a special focus on job creation and economic growth. At the level of the municipality of Mosteiros, due to its small market, the private sector has not yet developed to the point of generating many jobs and fostering the growth of the local economy. In this sense, it is essential to have local policies and incentives for micro and small businesses that operate in the key sectors of the municipality's development, especially in the field of agro-industry and tourism-related services.

According to the business survey conducted by INE in 2015 (IAE 2015), the municipality of Mosteiros has 157 "micro and small enterprises".

Among those companies, 63.7 percent are mini-markets, grocery stores and bars, and 7.6 percent are corn, coffee, wine, sewing, fuel sales, video clubs, dental clinics, driving schools, kindergartens, among others.

Fishing

The fisheries sector is of vital importance for the development of the municipality. Besides being a sector that generates other jobs, it has made a valuable contribution to food security, with six fishing areas in the Mosteiros.

Fishing in the Municipality covers essentially, fishing of large pelagics using the line technique (bottom fishing), and of small pelagics using encircling and mesh nets introduced by the Project - German/FOPESCA, which catches species such as mackerel, horse mackerel, palombeta.

Rural tourism is a potential that could be exploited with some benefit to the municipality. However, its promotion must necessarily involve some public investment, particularly in the training of an entrepreneurial class linked to the sector, training, the granting of credits and investment guidance.

Natural tourism resources

Monte Velha Forest Perimeter

The Monte Velha Forest is an attraction located in the northwest of the island of Fogo, on the sub-humid and humid mountain floor that integrates the municipalities of S. Filipe and Mosteiros. It consists essentially of large eucalyptus blankets and endemic species.

This eucalyptus blanket, associated with other species found there, harmonises and forms a green and attractive landscape, unlike the eastern side of the island and the interior of the Serra de Bordeira.

Monte Velha Forest Perimeter

Its location and exposure to the humid winds have ensured the exuberance of this forest as a green landscape, as a result of hidden rainfall. On the other hand, the administrative measures implemented for its management, such as forest restocking, have also ensured that it is always green, i.e. in a good state of conservation.

Of the countless endemic species in the country, the Tortolho (Euphorbia Tuckeyana) is the most common.

Coastline of Mosteiros

The coastline of Mosteiros is characterised by a succession of recesses, forming bays, coves and tips with emphasis on the Baia do Monte Vermelho, Ponta do Guincho, Ponta Queimada, Ponta do Guincho, Ponta da Lagoa Atráz, Lago e Baía and Ponta do Corvo.

Along the coast, the bay of Porto dos Mosteiros between Ponta Gil and Ponta Queimada stands out. There is the beach of "Baxo Lá", named after the locals.

It is an extensive beach, with black sand, indicating strong dynamics of the waves, which brings together potential for water sports.

Fajãzinha Beach

It is a beach located north of the city of Mosteiros, in the area of Fajãzinha. It is a small beach, with stones. It is most used by fishermen for launching and dragging fishing boats. It has a footpath, i.e. a staircase to the site.

Historical and cultural resources

City of Mosteiros

It is a small urban nucleus located in the riverside area on an abyssal plain, with a longitudinal profile. This town has a set of buildings from churches, squares and squares that harmonize forming a cultural landscape.

Sodadi Cooperative

It is located in the area of Achada Grande. It is easily accessible because it is located near the national road that connects it to other municipalities. It is an agricultural company that produces and processes grapes into wine.

The production is placed both in the local and international market. In this place, visitors can enjoy the production process, visit the winery, taste the wine and purchase the wine. These activities constitute a specific "niche" of cultural tourism, in its enotourism aspect.

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The City Igreja is inserted in an island with active volcanism, although the volcano is far from the urban perimeter. The risks are imminent in the context of a volcanic eruption, the manifestation of seismic tremors, and the need to help those affected. There is a seismological and volcanic surveillance service that monitors volcanic activity such as microbes and magma circulation, and the management of volcanic risks is carried out by the National Civil Protection Service, which has a national scope.

Another potential risk is drought, which in the past will have decimated thousands of people. Monitoring of the drought and its effects is done systematically by several central government services covering Civil Security, the Food Security Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.

Municipality of Brava

Brava Island is the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago and the southernmost in the country. Its occupation followed that of the island of Fogo and can be explained by its geographical proximity.

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In January 1798 the French pirates who invaded the island understood that the town of São João Baptista (Nova Sintra) had enough people to justify the looting. The population of the island grew rapidly between the end of the 18th century, when emigration to the United States of America began and the first half of the 20th century.

The topographical and climatic characteristics of the island justify a concentration in the highlands, above 450 metres, where there is soil, flat land and sufficient humidity for successful rain-fed agriculture.

The robust demographic growth justified the creation in 1826 of the parish of Nossa Senhora do Monte, leaving the island with two parishes, despite its modest territory.

Around 1830, Father João Henriques Moniz, who was parish priest of São João Baptista (Nova Sintra), arrived at the island of Brava as a degré. He founded a primary school on the island, which became the Superior Primary School of Cape Verde until 1860, when it was transferred to the city of Praia.

The island of Brava is the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago and the southernmost in the country. Its occupation followed that of the island of Fogo and can be explained by its geographical proximity.

The incorporation of indigenous people in the crews of the boats that passed through and docked there allowed the knowledge and familiarization with the routes and techniques of whaling, which facilitated emigration to the USA.

In the middle of 1800, Brava stood out for having the only 'higher' school in the archipelago and for having been the provisional seat of the Bishopric and the Government.

Creation

The City of Nova Sintra is the main urban nucleus of the island Brava, was elevated to this category by the Law nº77/VII/2010 of August 23rd, which establishes the regime of division, designation and determination of the categories of the settlements. At the time, it had the category of village with a population of 1852 inhabitants. The origins of the town are lost in time, but probably date back to the settlement of the island which also has no safe date.

In 1604, Baltazar Barreira gives a description of the islands of Cape Verde and their people, having made no reference to the island Brava. However, in 1606 Brava is referred to with cattle and some residents. In 1784, the author of the "Notícia Corográfica e Cronológica do Bispado de Cabo Verde" presents it as small and having only one parish because it is so poor and has so few people that it cannot support another priest besides the parish priest

Geographical location

With an area of 64 km2, Brava Island is the smallest inhabited island in the country, with a vigorous relief from the coast. Its highest point, Fontainhas, is less than 5 km from the coast and reaches an altitude of 976 metres; deep ravines diverge from the centre of the island. The dominant coast has vigorous cliffs, even in the few bays such as Furna, Ancião Ferreiros and Fajã de Água.

The island forms a single municipality, with two parishes since the mid-19th century. The settlement dates back to the beginning of the 17th century and, according to Lopes de Lima (1841), it increased with the arrival of more residents who fled the island of Fogo after the volcanic eruption of 1645.

From a geomorphological point of view it is characterised by being a mountainous island, the highest point being Mount Fontainhas with 957 m of altitude. From the highest point of the island there are several streams: Ribeira Garça, Ribeira da Cruz, Ribeira Fundão do Cachaço, Ribeira de Aguada, Ribeira do Sorno, Ribeira dos Ferreiros, Ribeira de Fajã de água, and Ribeira Renque, among others. There are many stalls with emphasis on Furna, Fajã d'água, Porto de Ancião and Caniço.

From the climatic point of view it is distinguished by the fact that it presents a diversity of microclimates from aridity in the coastal regions to humidity in the high areas, with a strong presence of condensation on the surface - "Fog".

Population

Ilha Brava in 2010 had a population of 5,995 inhabitants, of which 2,973 are men and 3,021 are women. In 2017 the municipality had a population of 5,579 according to INE data.

The island of Brava or the island of flowers, as it is usually called, was the birthplace of the immortal and great writer, musician and poet, Eugénio Tavares, who was immortalised in the history of Cape Verdean literature, the Lusophone community and beyond.

This island was initially populated with people from Madeira, Algarve, Minho, and probably other people, but now has a diverse population. The only municipality on the island has about seven thousand inhabitants.

The island's domestic economy lives from the primary sector, namely agriculture, livestock farming and fisheries, but the island is effectively highly dependent on remittances from emigration, especially from the United States of America.

Agriculture/livestock farming

Dry farming, together with cattle raising, is the main occupation of the Brava island population. Cattle farming has been present since the arrival of the first residents and wild cattle were on the island before permanent residents. Livestock farming is currently a complementary activity to agriculture, although goats are grazed freely on rocky and steep slopes.

On the island of Brava, it is estimated that about 20% of the dryland is cultivated on its own, 22% in partnership, 14% in rent, and 45% in lending (the farmer makes the land that does not belong to him), the latter being a semi-direct form of exploitation and very important on the island.

Livestock farming is a complementary activity to agriculture and has been of great importance to the family economy, despite its traditional form of exploitation.

Trade

The commerce sector is of extreme importance for the municipality. Today almost all areas of the municipality are covered by small marketing units for goods, mainly essentials.

Trade is centralized in the city of Nova Sintra where the shops are very well supplied mainly with products from the United States of America. It dominates the classic commerce in shops and mini markets.

Informal trade is mainly focused on agricultural products in markets and fairs. The system of street sales has not been installed as in the big centres. The grocery retail trade is present in practically all villages distributing essential goods.

Fishing

Fishing is a sector of high importance for the socio-economic development of the island of Brava, not only for its contribution to the food security of the populations, but also for the creation of jobs.

The sector is characterised by a system of non-industrial exploitation. Fishing is mainly done through lines and nets and marketing is done locally through fishponds while outside the island marketing is carried out by rabidants who often resort to conservation in ice and brine.

The localities with fishing vocation are Tantum, Furna Fajã D' Água, Pedrinha and Incião. The predominant types of fish are large and small pelagics and crustaceans.

Another factor hindering the socio-economic development of this island is the question of transport, especially maritime transport, which is very deficient and irregular, making Brava the most isolated island in the country.

Tourism is very incipient, even in a framework of internal ethnic tourism, usually family members who come from holidays in the diaspora go to their homes or close relatives. There is a great lack of accommodation and catering facilities. The relative isolation of the island over the past decades has not favoured the development of this sector.

Paradoxically, the potential for niche tourism, focused on rural areas and nature, is extraordinary, the aesthetic quality of the landscapes, the footpaths and natural accidents such as craters, tectonic faults, the type of relief forms and rock outcrops constitute authentic natural laboratories for specialised tourism.

Natural Attractions

Monte Vigia de Riba

It is a fault-shaped geological structure, about 750 metres high, located southwest of Brava Island, bordering other geoforms such as: Cratera de Chão de Ouro and Campo Baixo and Ribeira dos Ferreiros, which is an environmental reserve.

The uniqueness of this mountain is due to its geological composition, predominantly phonolitic nature, altitude and verticality. At the top of this hill there is a wide panoramic view to the south of the island, with emphasis on the protected area - Ribeira dos Ferreiros.

Monte Fontainhas

It is a geological monument, about 976 m high, located in the Fontainhas area, southwest of the city of Nova Sintra, and about 2.5 km away.

It belongs to one of the forms of volcanic relief, called the endogenous Dome or Dome, a mode of deposit of volcanic or effusive magmatic rocks that results from the consolidation of a viscous lava that accumulates inside the crater.

It is the highest point on the island - "head of the island". From its top there is an enormous panoramic view, which allows one to contemplate the various surrounding geoforms such as the Crater of Fundo Grande, Lima Doce, Tapume, Cova Joana, Francelha and Achada Benfica.

Its high altitude and exposure to the humid winds make its top surrounded by fog, a unique element of the island. It is perfectly possible to locate a mirror to capture fog water.

Bay and Furna Port

This is a geographical accident located on the northeast coast of the island of Brava, between Ponta de Rasque and Ponta Badejo.

This bay has a semicircular or crescent shape, mainly as a result of an intense erosive effect of the sea. It is also characterised by the crystallinity, cleanliness and depth of its waters, the latter being the characteristic that has allowed it to house the island's only and largest deep-water port, making it a natural attraction par excellence.

Also along the shore of this bay a small village was born and grew, dedicated to fishing activity, and whose simple way of life and cultural and religious manifestations (feast of Conakry, Our Lady of the Navigators, St. John the Baptist) held there, give this space a high value of cultural attraction.

Bay and Natural Port of Ancião

This is a recess on the southwest coast of the island, between Ponta de Nhô Matinho and Ponta de Quebra Cabeças, which is accessed by sea.

Like Furna Bay it has a semi-circular shape. The harmonising element of this bay, the South promontory Ponta Nhô Matinho, was for a long time used to follow both the North and South course of the island to all vessels, which is why it was considered a strategic site where a lighthouse with the same name was located.

This bay has a historical value, because thanks to its configuration, it allowed the existence of a natural harbour, where many brave people were rescued from hunger in the 16th century.

Baía and Fajã d'Água

This is a geographical accident located in the northwest of the island, more specifically, west of the city of Nova Sintra, between Ponta de Nhô Padre and Ponta Garbeiro.

It is a bay with an extensive dimension whose two points have several recesses, as a result of the contact between the marine erosive action and the heterogeneous and unequal hardness lithological materials.

These recesses make up authentic "natural pools", which is a uniqueness of this bay, especially the famous "black puddle" and its "castle filões".

The "poça preta" and its "castelo de filões" constitute one of the attractive elements of this bay in the form of small circular depressions, "natural pools", in contact with the sea, where the renewal of the water will depend on the tide that is felt along the bay.

It is used by locals and visitors for diving in hours of leisure, thanks to its tepid and crystalline water.

The scenic and scenic beauty of this bay is highlighted by its configuration and extension, as well as the freshness of the breeze felt there and the green that winds the valley in its vicinity.

Like the other bays on the island, a small village with a strong migratory tradition and cultural manifestations was born and grew up there, especially the emigrant's day celebration in June.

Ilhéus

In the composition of the geography of the country, there are parts of the territory which, due to their smallness, have not been permanently occupied, serving only as areas of refuge for fauna and flora: these are the islanders.

The Dry Islets or Rombo Islets are located in the Sotavento group of the archipelago of Cape Verde, to the south.

The isolation of these territories, both from the islands and the mainland, has guaranteed the preservation and protection of species of fauna and flora which, due to their scientific value, make these areas unique.

Their scientific, scenic, geomorphological value, as well as the landscape as a whole, add up to become a unique territory in the calculation of the country, which is why they have been granted the status of protected area, categorised as an Integral Natural Reserve, according to the DL/03/2013.

Access to this area is only possible by sea, and only for scientific purposes, although they are often used by fishermen for fishing.

Cultural Historical Attractions

The island of Brava presents, in a dispersed way, a diversity of attractions with historical and cultural values, integrated in several villages, resulting from the appropriation of space and social relations established over time. As examples of these attractions we highlight the shelter, convenience and pleasant environment, the panoramic view, cultural manifestations, works of municipal landscape policies, equipment’s and infrastructures, among others.

These attractions are subdivided into material heritage elements such as old buildings and colonial architecture (houses, schools, churches, markets, lighthouse, memorials and monuments, surface water catchment mirror, squares and gardens) and immaterial with emphasis on the festivities of pilgrimages (Santa Cruz and Santo António, São João, São Pedro, São Paulo, S. Ana, Santa Aninha and Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes) and popular (Colá São João).

The symbiosis between the various elements makes the different villages authentic landscapes/cultural areas clearly defined, i.e., resulting from man's intentional actions, and in this category gardens, urban and rural areas can be integrated.

Saint Barbara

This is a small village to the west of the town of Nova Sintra, indicating a first urban nucleus before the current town.

This settlement is characterised, above all, by the architectural configuration of its colonial-style buildings, roofing in the shape of four waters and tile, distributed in such a way as to form a dispersed settlement style.

On their way through the village, visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate the buildings and streets with colonial-style architectural features, such as houses, a Catholic church and, among others.

Being at Ponta de Santa Bárbara, visitors will have an excellent panoramic view of the sea, being able to appreciate, if the day is of good visibility, a large part of the northeast of the island, where Porto and Furna Bay stand out, the Fishing Bay, Ribeira de Vinagre where once there was a fountain that sprout water with mineral-medicinal characteristics and the Rombo or Secos islets.

City of Nova Sintra

The city of Nova Sintra lies on a plateau of approximately 520 m in altitude and has a panoramic view of the sea.

It is an urban nucleus, which evolved from an old town, and gained city status in 2010. Given its altitude it is sometimes covered with fog for days and weeks which gives it a unique landscape and some tranquillity. On clear days you can see the island of Fogo.

This city has an urban layout with marks of colonial architecture. In its historical centre you can find several old buildings with high architectural value, with emphasis on churches, squares and museum, municipal market, old schools, colonial style houses, among others.

It is a small city that has not suffered any profound changes in its urban layout and whose streets and buildings retain almost the same characteristics of the colonial era. It stands out for its architectural originality and planned urban layout, for its easy access that facilitates urban mobility, with a strong presence of green areas, which makes it an attractive city.

It is an urban centre where silence reigns and it is very inviting for relaxation, rest and contemplation of the urban landscape. From the top of the city of Nova Sintra we have an authentic viewpoint, where you can see the whole city and the island of Fogo itself on an open day.

Casa Eugénio Tavares, now Museum

Casa de Eugénio Tavares, now Museu da Brava, is located in the historical centre of Nova Sintra, in Rua da Cultura, Aldeia de Pé da Rocha. It is a traditional and manor building marked by characteristic features of colonial architecture.

This museum house, besides its historical value, has a very strong symbolic value, for being associated with a personality that marked its time and Cape Verdean culture. Because of the symbolism represented by the figure of Eugénio Tavares, as a revolutionary, poet and writer, the Casa Museu Eugénio Tavares is an almost "obligatory" point of visit for those who visit the island of Brava.

Eugénio Tavares Square

Eugénio Tavares Square is located in the central zone of the historical centre of the city, just in front of the Town Hall. It is a square of great dimension, rectangular shape and that still preserves its original characteristics.

It is an inviting leisure space for rest, relaxation and contemplation. There, a monument in memory of Eugénio Tavares was erected in June 2002, in recognition of all the legacy left during his life.

Cova Rodela

This is a small rural village located near Nova Sintra. This small rural settlement was born and grew inside an ancient volcanic crater, where some elements harmonize to make it an attractive landscape, namely buildings with very simple traditional architectural traces, spots of agricultural foothills and endemic species of dragon tree.

Cova Joana

In an area crossed by the national road that connects the north to the south of the island, you will find the Cova Joana at the top, from where the visitor can get excellent panoramic views, having as an example the huge crater often covered by fog, which appears to be a great wall to protect the population settlement.

Still following the contemplation of the elements of this landscape, several buildings with simple architectural features stand out in the view of the visitor, predominating the roofs in the form of four waters and tile, which mark, in some way, the colonial architecture.

One can also see the agricultural fields and a huge mirror of surface water catchment, green patches of tree and shrub cover, especially fig trees, which witness a very humanized cultural landscape.

Our Lady of Monte

It is a village located southwest of the city of Nova Sintra, bordering the towns of Cova Joana, Lima Doce and Campo Baixo.

It is a village with a unique landscape, so the visitor, who chooses to visit this area, will have the opportunity to appreciate elements linked to architectural heritage, with original European features well preserved, such as a school with a colonial characteristic, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, the Social Centre, former family residence of Joaquim and Maria da Graça.

The natural and historical cultural elements harmonize among themselves, transforming the landscape of Nossa Senhora do Monte into a significant attraction for those who visit the island. The most exquisite moments are the celebration of the island's feast (São João, June 24) and the local feast (Nossa Senhora dos Montes), as well as after the rainfall.

Mato Grande

It is a town situated southeast of Nova Sintra, bordering the town of João de Noli and Garça. There is a belvedere in this town that allows us to contemplate the whole town of Nova Sintra, a fort supposedly relocated, with pieces of cannons facing the town, which presupposes a strategic point for the defence of this town. There is also a small chapel where mass is said punctually.

From Mato Grande, a great diversity of endemic plant species can be contemplated on the slope of Mount Amargosa. From there, one can still appreciate to the coast, the extensive Ribeira da Garça and Ribeira da Cruz.

Cachaço

It is a town south of the town of Nova Sintra, near Fontainhas. It is an area with an arid landscape, with a whitish colour due to the predominance of geological formation of phonolitic nature. On this landscape there is a small population cluster, whose uniqueness is the harmonisation between some natural and human elements.

This town stands out as a cultural historical attraction due to its modern architectural style chapel, compared to the other religious patrimonies of the island.

Baleia and Garça

Baleia and Garça are two small contiguous localities, located in the southeast of the city of Nova Sintra, after the area of Mato Grande. They are two small population centres, situated on the slope of a mountain, with a panoramic view of the sea. They have a very mountainous relief with deep valleys, being, in the high part, green contrasting with the coast which has a semi-arid landscape. It is a place where people dedicate themselves to agriculture, livestock and fishing in the traditional fashion.

One of the aspects that mark this locality is the commemoration of two religious festivals much experienced by the residents: Santa Aninha and N. S. dos Navegantes.