Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a municipality located in the eastern section of Santiago Island, with Pedra Badejo serving as its administrative center. The territory comprises numerous settlements organized within the Santiago Maior parish and connected by local road networks.

The municipality gained independence from Praia as a separate administrative entity in 1971. A significant territorial change occurred in 2005 when its southern portion separated to establish São Lourenço dos Órgãos as a new municipality.

Local farming practices remain deeply rooted in community life, with families tending crops across generations. Agricultural work shapes the daily routines and social bonds of residents throughout the territory.

Roads connecting the various settlements are basic, so visitors should be prepared for simple travel conditions. The drier months offer better accessibility to explore the scattered communities across the territory.

Two dams, Barragem do Poilão and Figueira Gorda, collect water to support farming activities across the municipality. These reservoirs are essential for maintaining crop irrigation and sustaining agricultural work during drier periods.

Location: Sotavento Islands

Elevation above the sea: 45 m

Shares border with: São Domingos, São Lourenço dos Órgãos, São Salvador do Mundo, Santa Catarina, São Miguel

GPS coordinates: 15.13333,-23.56667

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:48