The historic center of Mindelo is linked to the great past of the island of São Vicente, which is manifested in different buildings in time and architectural style. Despite its late humanization, Mindelo experienced rapid development from the mid-19th century onwards, with the installations of the English coal companies attracted by the excellence of the Porto Grande baia and the privileged geostrategic position of the archipelago, for the supply of ships that sailed in the sout Atlantic.
As a result of the economic and population growth that gave more and more importance to the island, the settlement of Mindelo was elevated to the category of town in 1858, by Royal Decree of 29 April . About 20 years later, it was acquired the status of a city.
ler maisCurrently, the Historic Center, which is known as Morada, bears witness to the intense human activity around Porto Grande, which led to the emergence of a peculiar architecture, with a strong colonial character visible in the buildings, in the gardens, in the correct spaces, in the squares, on the streets and paviments.
On the other hand, the intense port activity allowed a strong interaction of different peoples, embodying a diversified culture, generating the necessary conditions for the emergence of internationally renowned artists such as Cesária Évora.
Thus, recognizing the historical and patrimonial value of the Historic Center of Mindelo, it was classified as National Heritage in 2012, by Resolution No. 6/2012 of 31 January.
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