What is the capital of Cape Verde?
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Praia, whose name means beach in Portuguese, is the capital and largest city of Cape Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa. It is located on the south coast of the island of Santiago, the largest and most populous of the Cape Verde islands.
Founded in the 17th century, Praia gradually supplanted Ribeira Grande (now Cidade Velha) as the administrative and economic center, officially becoming the capital of Cape Verde in 1770. Its strategic location and natural harbor favored its development as a hub of maritime trade.
Praia is characterized by a series of plateaus, known locally as achadas, surrounded by valleys. The main plateau, known as Platô, is the city’s historical and administrative center. The city enjoys a warm desert climate, with average annual temperatures of around 25°C and low rainfall, mainly concentrated between August and October.
In 2023, Praia’s population is estimated at around 188,728, making it the most populous city in Cape Verde. Rapid population growth in recent decades is explained by the rural exodus and the capital’s appeal in terms of economic and educational opportunities.
The country’s economic hub, Praia is home to the main financial institutions, businesses and markets. The port of Praia plays a crucial role in imports and exports, facilitating trade in products such as coffee, sugar cane and tropical fruits. The tertiary sector, which includes services, trade and tourism, is an important part of the local economy.
Praia is a cultural crossroads, blending African and Portuguese influences. The city is renowned for its music, particularly morna and coladeira, emblematic musical genres of Cape Verde. The Platô district is home to colonial buildings, lively squares and colorful markets, reflecting the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Visitors to Praia can explore various sites of interest, such as the Sucupira market and the ethnographic museum, and enjoy the surrounding beaches. The city also serves as a starting point for discovering the island of Santiago, with its mountainous landscapes, traditional villages and historic sites such as the Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Praia is served by Nelson Mandela International Airport, which facilitates links with the other islands of the archipelago and international destinations. The city also boasts a developing road network, although rapid urban growth poses challenges in terms of infrastructure and public services.
Like many growing capitals, Praia faces the challenges associated with rapid urbanization, particularly in terms of housing, employment and resource management. Local authorities are striving to promote sustainable development, focusing on improving infrastructure, education and health, while preserving the city’s unique cultural identity.
Praia, as the capital of Cape Verde, embodies the diversity and cultural richness of the archipelago. Its evolution from colonial port to dynamic metropolis reflects the country’s socio-economic transformations. Combining tradition and modernity, Praia remains at the heart of the Cape Verdean identity, offering visitors and residents alike a harmonious blend of historical heritage and contemporary vitality.
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What is the capital of Cape Verde?
Answer
Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is located on the island of Santiago. With around 188,728 inhabitants in 2023, it is the political, economic and cultural center of the country.