Pelourinho: A Haunting Reminder of Cape Verde's Past
Visit Pelourinho in Cidade Velha, Cape Verde: a poignant monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, echoing the island's colonial history.
The Pelourinho in Cidade Velha, Cape Verde, is a historic pillory dating back to 1512 or 1520. This white marble column stands as a stark reminder of the island's colonial past and the brutal history of the transatlantic slave trade.
A brief summary to Pelourinho
- W97V+XXR, National Highway, Cidade Velha, CV
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.
- Combine your visit with other historical sites in Cidade Velha, such as the Forte Real de São Filipe and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário.
Getting There
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Walking
Pelourinho is easily accessible on foot from most points within Cidade Velha. From the main square, head southeast along the National Highway. The walk is roughly 10-15 minutes, but wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven.
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Public Transport
If arriving by *aluguer* (local minibus) from Praia, the bus stop in Cidade Velha is about a 10-minute walk to Pelourinho. Follow the road signs leading to the historical site.
Discover more about Pelourinho
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cidade Velha
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Monte Babosa
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Bu Country Tours
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Restaurante Tambake
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Bar Secreto Iberico
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Praiano Aparthotel
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Pensão Benfica
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Praça da Terra Branca
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Hotel VIP Praia
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Simplycar
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Roma - Ristopizza
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Kebra Cabana
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Shanna Cabo Verde
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Cabo Verde National Assembly
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Homem de Pedra
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Unmissable attractions to see
Historic Centre of Ribeira Grande (Cidade Velha)
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Praia Cidade Velha
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Nossa Senhora do Rosário church
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Igreja Calabaceira
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Sé Cathedral (ruins)
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São Filipe Royal Fortress
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Convento de São Francisco
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Piscina Natural Cova Minhoto
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praçinha do palmarejo
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Playa de Palmarejo
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Cova Figueira
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Cruz de Papa
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Quebra Canela
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Ilheu de Santa Maria
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Estatura Homem de Pedra
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Essential places to dine
Sab Sabin - Café, restaurante, petiscos
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Brasa
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A Grelha
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Kebra Burguer
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Picoteo Tapas Bar
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L'ATELIER / PRAIA
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SPACE 44
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Espaço Somada - Bar Restaurante
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Sabores do Mundo
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Mac Express
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B.BURGUER - Hamburguer Artesanal
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Titi Sushi Lounge
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Restaurant Moringo
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barb's variedades
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Boutique Linda
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Kebra Kanela Beach
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Michel Shopping
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Reco Shop
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Calú & Ângela
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Equivalenza Palmarejo
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Boutique dos Congelados
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Little Sunshine Boutique
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Boutique Verónica Cardoso SU Lda
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ORCA CABO VERDE
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Habibi
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Globe Shisha Lounge
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Jimmy Banda Lounge Bar
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Bar Restaurante Ferro Velho
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Bar derito
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bar restaurante fatima
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Bar Aldino Cardoso
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eclipse bar lounge
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Ché Bar
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Bar Titina
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Moreia Julieta
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Bar já
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