Sights and landmarks in Praia

Sights and landmarks in Praia

1. See

   Cruz do Papa

   A large cross; from where it stands, there's also a nice view over Quebra Canela beach.

2. See

   Diogo Gomes monument

   A monument dedicated to Diogo Gomes, the explorer of the islands. It is located at the south of the plateau, and there are great views from there to Praia do Gamboa and Ilhéu de Santa Maria.

3. See

   Fundação Amílcar Cabral

   Cultural centre dedicated to the revolutionary leader Amílcar Cabral (1924-73). Notable for its murals.

4. See

   Ilhéu de Santa Maria

   A small island just outside the harbour. Formerly people with leprosy were quarantined on the island; Chinese businessmen are planning to set up a casino here.

5. See

   Museu Etnográfico

   Located in a historic building in the old town, this museum presents the history of the Cape Verdean people through objects of everyday life.

6. See

   Praia Cathedral

   Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Graça

   The city's cathedral was constructed in 1902 in classicist style.

7. See

   Praia de Gamboa

   Gamboa beach, which gave the city its name. However, it's not suitable for swimming.

8. See

   Praia town hall

   Antiga Câmara Municipal

   Built in neoclassicist style with a square central tower, the town hall is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture around. It's still in use. When the doors are open, make sure to have a look inside. There's even some information on the building's history available for visitors.

9. See

   Praça Alexandre Albuquerque

   A square in the central old town. Albuquerque was a governor who was passionate about card playing; therefore, each of the four corners of the square is marked by a suit.

10. See

    Presidential Palace

    Palácio Presidencial

    Built in the late 19th century as the residence of the Portuguese governor, nowadays it is the presidential palace. It has lately been renovated with financial help from China. Other governmental buildings are located nearby.

11. See

    Quartel Jaime Mota

    Old barracks next to the presidential palace, have seen better days.

12. See

    Supreme Court

    Palácio da Justiça

    The supreme court is a pretty building at the Praça Alexandre Albuquerque. It may be possible to visit it on the inside too.

13. See

    Estado da Varzea

    The city's football stadium seating 10,000 persons.

14. See

    Igreja do Nazareno

    A Protestant church.

15. See

    Palácio da Assembleia

    Assemblada Nacional

    The national assembly of Cape Verde.

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Praia (CC BY-SA 4.0).