Idea #735 – Exploring Fogo Island and the city of Sao Filipe in Cape Verde
Fogo, Fógu in Creole Cape Verde, is an island located in the south of the Cape Verde archipelago, otherwise called the island of Sao Filipe. It belongs to the group of islands of Sotavento and is located to the east of the island of Santiago. The volcanic island is dominated by an active stratovolcano, the Pico do Fogo, which culminates in 2,829 meters and whose ascent is an interesting adventure.
The population of the island of Sao Filipe, linked to the exploitation of the cotton for the manufacture of pagans which would have been the currency of exchange for slaves, began in the XV century, and was pursued, with the arrival of colons issus de Santiago. The city of São Filipe is a center of magnificent sobrados, large colonial-style villas, where the landowners live. These villas consist of a ground floor building, ground level where the domestic tasks are concentrated. The floor, characteristic with large wooden balconies, serves logistics to the owners.
In the upper part of the city, the Belvedere of Aguadinha reserves to tourists an admirable view on some plagues of black sand and, on the other hand, the days of good visibility, the neighboring island of Brava. Mosteiros, where the second airport of the island is located, is known for its production of the famous “Café de Fogo”.
Parallel to the production of the café, the culture of the raisin is used for the manufacture of the manecon wine, very much appreciated in all countries, because no chemical product is involved in its composition and due to its very particular taste. Since 2020, the island has acquired a biosphere reserve, recognized by UNESCO.
Some Pictures
Where is it ?
Sao Filipe, Sao Filipe Island, Cap Vert