Centre historique de Praia

We stayed one night in the heart of Praia’s historic center, conveniently located for an early departure to one of the other islands. The city is perched on the naturally fortified plateau of Santa Maria da Vitória, overlooking the harbor. Praia developed here due to its strategic military importance, which allowed control over maritime and commercial activities in the region.

As Ribeira Grande (Cidade Velha) declined, Praia emerged as Cape Verde’s primary population center, benefiting from its geographic location, large port, improved defenses, and better hygiene. In 1770, it was declared the capital of Cape Verde. The city’s 19th-century urban planning reflects European ideals, with straight streets, squares, and colonial architecture, including landmarks like the Presidential Palace and City Hall.

We wandered the streets in search of its Outstanding Universal Value, but nothing truly stood out. We viewed the Presidential Palace, which is modest in size, the City Hall, and visited a couple of pleasant squares. The historic center is small, with no signage or markers to highlight points of interest. In São Filipe, for example, they’ve implemented a walking tour with QR codes and some information along the way—something Praia could benefit from.

The main street, flanked with a few stately buildings and mercifully car-free, is pleasant to stroll, but it’s far from enough to justify an inscription on the World Heritage List. Thumbs down from us.