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Campo de Concentração: A Testament to Resilience

Explore the poignant history of the Campo de Concentração in Chão Bom, Cape Verde, a museum dedicated to remembrance and resilience.

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The Campo de Concentração, located in Chão Bom, Cape Verde, stands as a poignant reminder of the island's colonial past. Once a prison camp under the Portuguese Estado Novo regime, it now serves as a museum dedicated to the history of political prisoners and the fight for independence. Visitors can explore the exhibits, reflect on the past, and honor the resilience of the Cape Verdean people.

A brief summary to Campo De Concentração

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit during the weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can get busy with local visitors.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights and personal stories related to the exhibits.
  • Allocate at least two hours for your visit to fully appreciate the history and significance of the displays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in Chão Bom, the Campo de Concentração is accessible by foot. From the main road, head towards the Unnamed Road (7774+HCM) where the site is located. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the center of Chão Bom. Follow the signs and ask locals for directions if needed.

  • Public Transport

    From Praia do Tarrafal, take a local 'Aluguer' (shared taxi) to Chão Bom. These can typically be found near the main square or bus station. The fare should be around 100-200 CVE per person. Once you arrive in Chão Bom, you may need to walk a short distance (approximately 1 km) to reach Campo De Concentração.

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Discover more about Campo De Concentração

The Campo de Concentração, or Tarrafal concentration camp, is located in the village of Chão Bom on Santiago Island, Cape Verde. Established in 1936 by the Portuguese Estado Novo regime, it initially served as a prison for political and social prisoners. The remote location and harsh climate were deliberately chosen to isolate prisoners and suppress dissent. The camp was reopened in 1961 as a labor camp, imprisoning militants from the national liberation struggles in Angola, Guinea-Bissau, and Cape Verde. Today, the former concentration camp is a museum dedicated to preserving the memory of those who suffered and died there. Visitors can explore the prison complex, which includes the original prison buildings, a chapel, and a cemetery. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that chronicle the history of the camp and the experiences of its prisoners. The museum aims to promote reflection and understanding of Cape Verde's past, fostering a deeper connection to the island's present and future. It is the most visited museum in the country, with over 9,000 annual visits.

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