Establishing Cidade Velha: First European Tropic City

In 1462, the construction of Cidade Velha, also known as Ribeira Grande, marked the establishment of the first European city in the tropics. This historic event took place in Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa. The city served as a crucial hub for trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas during the Age of Exploration. Its strategic location made it a pivotal center for the transatlantic slave trade. Cidade Velha's architecture reflected a blend of European and African influences, showcasing a unique cultural fusion. The city's development brought economic prosperity to the region, attracting merchants, sailors, and settlers from various parts of the world. However, the expansion also led to social tensions and conflicts over resources and power. The construction of Cidade Velha had a lasting impact on the history and heritage of Cabo Verde, shaping its identity as a crossroads of different cultures. The city's ruins stand as a testament to its rich past and the complex legacy of colonization in the region. #CidadeVelha #RibeiraGrande #EuropeanCity #Tropics #CaboVerde #History #Colonization #CulturalFusion #TransatlanticTrade #Heritage