Tarrafal, Administrative municipality in Santiago Island, Cape Verde
Tarrafal is an administrative municipality covering about 112 square kilometers across northern Santiago Island with white sand beaches along its northwestern coast. The area includes fishing villages and settlements spread throughout, from seaside areas inland toward agricultural regions.
The area took shape under Portuguese colonial rule in the 1930s when authorities built a concentration camp here to hold political prisoners. This facility operated until 1974, marking a painful chapter in the island's colonial past.
The name comes from Santo Amaro, and residents gather here each January to celebrate with local music and traditional pottery on display. These gatherings show how the community keeps its customs alive through shared occasions.
Two main roads connect the area to the capital: one passes through Assomada and São Domingos inland, while the other follows the east coast through Calheta. Travelers should account for local schedules and expect longer journey times on the mountainous stretches.
Monte Graciosa rises 643 meters above the bay, creating a natural backdrop for the fishing port and town buildings below. This distinctive peak remains visible from many points across the area and has long served as a landmark for local fishermen.
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