Santiago (3)

Before Praia the capital city of Cape Verde was Cidade Velha. Since 2009 the village belongs to Unesco World Cultural Heritage. More than 500 years ago this place also was visited by Vasco da Gama and even Christopher Columbus, who both visited its still existing church. Almost 100 years later Francis Drake and his corsairs distressed the village, which is why fortress "Fortaleza Real de Sao Filipe" above the village was built that today still can be visited. If needed you can find historical details in guidebooks and of course in the internet.

Cidade Velha seen from the fortress (click picture to enlarge it)

On the central plaza still the pillory (Pelourinho) exists - in the picture the marble column at the far right. On the right of it you come to the beach and to the restaurants. The atmosphere is great and is worth for a visit also in the evening.

Main plaza of Cidade Velha (click picture to enlarge it)

We originate from the country and for sure that is the reason why capital city Praia is not attractive for us. Indeed we found many parts of it repellent, so as we also don't get anything out of German metropolises. Actually only the pictured area around the lighthouse we found attractive, but you definitely should visit Praia and get your own idea.

Praia (click picture to enlarge it)

When visiting the lighthouse, which still is in operation, we were guided right to the top. It was absolutely incredible, although not necessarily save.

Lighthouse of Praia (click picture to enlarge it)