Geography

The islands of Cape Verde are of volcanic origin, formed by the Cape Verde hotspot. The islands are divided into two groups: the Barlavento Islands (windward islands), located in the north, and the Sotavento Islands (leeward islands), located in the south. The highest point in Cape Verde is the volcano Pico de Santo Antão, which rises to 1,979 meters (6,493 ft) on the island of Santo Antão. The islands have a variety of landscapes, including sandy beaches, volcanic craters, and rugged mountains.

Population

The population of Cape Verde is estimated at around 555,000 people. The majority of the population is of mixed African and European descent, with a significant number of Portuguese and other European immigrants. The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but the country also has a number of Creole languages, including Kriolu, spoken by the majority of the population.

Culture

Cape Verdean culture is a blend of African and European influences. Music is an important part of Cape Verdean culture, with genres such as morna, coladeira, and funaná popular throughout the country. The islands are also known for their vibrant festivals, including the Carnival celebrations in February and March. Cape Verde has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes such as cachupa (a stew made with cornmeal, beans, and meat) and grilled fish popular throughout the archipelago.

Economy

The economy of Cape Verde is largely based on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Tourism is the country's main source of foreign exchange, with the islands attracting visitors from all over the world. The fishing industry is also significant, with tuna and other seafood being exported to Europe and other markets. Agriculture, primarily the production of coffee and bananas, accounts for a small but important portion of the economy.

History

The islands of Cape Verde were uninhabited before the arrival of Portuguese explorers in the 15th century. The islands were settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century and became a Portuguese colony. Cape Verde gained independence from Portugal in 1975, and has since been a democratic republic.

Major Landmarks

Cape Verde has a number of notable landmarks, including:

• Cidade Velha (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic town on the island of Santiago that was the first European settlement in the archipelago.
• Pico de Santo Antão, the highest point in Cape Verde, is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• The Beaches, Cape Verde is known for its beautiful beaches, including Praia de Santa Monica on the island of Sal and Praia de Tarrafal on the island of Santiago.
• The Cratera volcano, a dormant volcano on the island of Fogo, is a popular destination for adventure travelers.