Cape Verde: photos, description, history and tourism

Cape Verde (or state called Cape Verde), located just west of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean.It is a wonderful combination of wild, almost untouched nature with a modern service that gives you everything you need here man.

Geographical location

Each island of Cape Verde on the map located along the strip of tropical climate.Since there are areas of land in close proximity to the African continent, but in the Northern Hemisphere, there are frequent dry winds and monsoons.From the eternal drought, which is observed in the Sahara, save perhaps that the ocean that fills the air with little moisture.Himself archipelago consists of ten major islands, and five (other sources say eight) smaller.All of them are divided into two groups: the Barlavento (Windward) and Sotavento (Leeward).The first consists of the island of Sao Vicente, Santo Antao, Santa Luzia, Sao Nicolau, Boavista and Sal.The second concern Fogo, Maio, Brava, Santiago, as well as small islands: once, Branco Grande, Santa Maria, Luis Carneiro, Shem, Salado and Du Rey.At the last of these is the main port of Cape Verde.

Climate

As mentioned above, the Cape Verde Islands lie in the tropical natural surroundings.Here it is dominated by the dry climate, which helps carry forever blowing from the African monsoon.On the islands is always windy, because a sport like windsurfing, there are very well developed.The water temperature in the ocean during the summer is 26 degrees, and in winter drops to 22. Thus, a vacation at this resort at any time of the year.It should also be noted that in August there begins the rainy season, which lasts until October.However, rainfall is minimal, and most of the showers are in the mountains.

Geological data

If we consider separately each island of Cape Verde on the map of tectonic plates, we find that this is not an archipelago of continental origin as it can be assumed (because of its proximity to Africa), and volcanic.This area is seismically stable, is only active volcano on the island of Fugu.Danger lurks completely different angle.The islands Boavista and Sal are being eroded because of the strong ocean waves and the constant monsoons, which bring with them not only the heat, but the sand.Nevertheless, while their underwater structure retains its original appearance.

small historical sketch

Historians have found the first mention about the Cape Verde Islands in the Arab navigator onboard diaries Idrisi, who lived in the 12th century.The official date of opening of the land is considered to be 1460, when the shores of the island of Sal, the Portuguese landed.They declared that land their colony and new possessions, and founded the first settlement here.For centuries, until the 20th century, here came more and more people from all over Europe and even from Russia.After them followed by migrants from Africa.In 1956 there was founded African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde.In 1974, this island nation has made for himself full independence from Portugal, and today it exists independently.

ethnic composition

Cape Verde Islands were uninhabited territory as long as they have not opened the inhabitants of Portugal.Since then, the flow of immigrants here has been overwhelming, and the people came not only from Europe but also from Africa.Thus, there emerged a racial type, which is generally referred to as "Creole".They make up 70% of the total population.28% - Africans, but the white-skinned people here, there are only 1%.Half the population lives in cities.The largest ports of the country - and Mindelo, Sao Filipe.The capital city of Praia.44% of the population of Cape Verde under the poverty line.

Attractions

Where is the island of Cape Verde, which is worth a visit?Some specific region highlight the difficult, because each unit of the archipelago would draw your attention to something special.

  • Sal is the most popular island.There is always a lot of tourists, excellent transportation and beautiful beaches suitable for recreation, and for surfing.
  • Santo Antao - it's endless natural beauty.You can explore the high mountains for days and enjoy their greatness.
  • on the island of Fogo has an active volcano, the crater of which it is possible to go to the tour group.
  • Brava grown on the banks of the incredible beauty of flower beds and shrubs.

Conclusion

unique natural creation and with it a great place for summer holidays - Cape Verde Islands.Photos of the geographical object is in the article and looking at them, we can roughly understand how there is beautiful and good.This is not a typical holiday island with calm azure sea, passing in the pink sand.This is an interesting place for active recreation and new experiences!