Nossa Senhora do Rosário church (Cidade Velha)


Nossa Senhora do Rosario church is a 15th century church in the town of Cidade Velha on the island of Santiago, Cape Verde. It is located in the northwest of the town, near the right bank of the stream Ribeira Grande de Santiago. The historic centre of Cidade Velha is an UNESCO World Heritage site since June 2009.

History

The main part of the church was built in 1495, which makes it the oldest surviving building of Cidade Velha. Its Manueline side chapel is a rare example of Gothic architecture in Sub-Saharan Africa. The church is exceptionally well preserved.