Attraction Guide: Rua Banana, Cidade Velha, Cape Verde

Rua Banana Guide

Rua Banana: Walking Through Cape Verde's First Street Guide

Rua Banana, or Banana Street, holds the distinction of being the first street built in Cidade Velha, and arguably the first street built in sub-Saharan Africa by Europeans. This cobblestone street, though short, is steeped in history and offers a tangible connection to the earliest days of Portuguese colonization in Cape Verde. Walking along Rua Banana is like stepping back in time, allowing you to imagine the bustling activity that once characterized this vital thoroughfare. Rua Banana dates back to the 15th century, when Cidade Velha was established as the first European settlement in the tropics. The street was named after the banana trees that once lined its path. It served as the main artery of the town, connecting important buildings such as the church, the pillory, and the governor's residence. Over the centuries, Rua Banana witnessed the rise and fall of Cidade Velha as a major trading hub and slave port. Today, the street is a protected historical site, preserving its original character and reminding visitors of its significant past. A stroll down Rua Banana is a must for any visitor to Cidade Velha. Admire the well-preserved colonial architecture of the buildings that line the street, including the iconic Casa de Madeira (Wooden House), one of the oldest surviving buildings in Cape Verde. Take photos and soak in the atmosphere of this historic street. While Rua Banana itself doesn't have specific culinary offerings, nearby restaurants in Cidade Velha offer traditional Cape Verdean dishes.