The Plateau & Praia's Colonial Heritage
Praia's Plateau neighbourhood occupies a dramatic flat-topped hill above the bay — the colonial Portuguese town centre has the Presidential Palace, national market, and the best views in the Cape Verde islands
- 1
Plateau Central Square
The central praça in the colonial center of Praia — flanked by the presidential palace and government buildings in colorful colonial architecture typical of Lusophone Africa
- 2
The Presidential Palace in Cape Verde
The gracious colonial governor's palace on the edge of the plateau, now the presidential residence - its terrace overlooks the bay and the Atlantic beyond
- 3
The building plateau of the National Assembly
Cape Verde's parliament building reflects the country's remarkable democratic tradition — one of Africa's most stable and long-lasting democracies since 1991
- 4
Municipal Market Praia
The covered market at the edge of the plateau where farmers from Badiu (Santiago Island) sell tropical fruits, dried tuna and the ingredients of Cape Verdean cooking
- 5
Praça Alexandre Albuquerque
The historic main square with its colonial fountain and pale buildings — where Praia's residents gather in the evening for the traditional Passio promenade
- 6
Plateau Cliffside Views
Walking to the edge of the plateau reveals Praia Bay below - fishing boats, the ferry terminal and the Atlantic horizon in a panorama that frames the island geography of the city