São Francisco Convent Ruins Cidade Velha
Explore the 17th-century São Francisco Convent Ruins, a historical gem intertwined with vibrant nature and wildlife in Cidade Velha.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
São Francisco Convent Ruins Cidade Velha
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 17th-century São Francisco Convent Ruins, a historical gem intertwined with vibrant nature and wildlife in Cidade Velha.
"The ruins are not very impressive but together with the lush green surroundings will make you feel you're going 500 years back in time."
Ignore Fake Ticket Sellers
An old lady may try to sell fake tickets. The site visit is free, so just ignore her. :moneywithwings:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding areas with ease. Cobblestones and uneven paths are common. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.2 · 25 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monastery of St. Francis Ruins
Cidade Velha
Explore the 17th-century ruins, a testament to history amidst lush greenery. Feel transported back centuries.
Lush Surrounding Vegetation
Around the ruins
Mango, pomegranate, and coconut palms create a vibrant, natural setting for the historical site.
Wildlife Encounters
Near the ruins
Spot monkeys, kingfishers, and goats roaming freely in this unique historical and natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Ruins
Navigating Cidade Velha
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ignore Fake Ticket Sellers
An old lady may try to sell fake tickets. The site visit is free, so just ignore her. :moneywithwings:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding areas with ease. Cobblestones and uneven paths are common. :athletic_shoe:
Combined Ticket Option
Consider a combined ticket with the Fort for a more comprehensive historical experience. 🎟️
Embrace the Greenery
The natural surroundings are as much a part of the experience as the ruins themselves. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ignore Fake Ticket Sellers
An old lady may try to sell fake tickets. The site visit is free, so just ignore her. :moneywithwings:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding areas with ease. Cobblestones and uneven paths are common. :athletic_shoe:
Combined Ticket Option
Consider a combined ticket with the Fort for a more comprehensive historical experience. 🎟️
Embrace the Greenery
The natural surroundings are as much a part of the experience as the ruins themselves. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the São Francisco Convent Ruins to be a historically significant site, beautifully integrated with lush natural surroundings and offering glimpses of local wildlife. While the ruins themselves are not extensive, the overall atmosphere transports you back in time. Some visitors note the presence of individuals attempting to sell fake tickets, advising others to be aware.
"it was built around 1640, by Franciscan missionaries replacing previous Jesuit missionaries.
Also used as a learning center where the priests would select and teach several works to the slaves brought by Portuguese to the Cidade Velha. This would increase their market value. Some would remain here forever, working on the cotton plantations, while others would be sold to go on to the Americas.
Partially destroyed by an attack of the french naval officer Jacques Cassard in 1712, which created the pivotal moment of search for a safer place, and the eventual creation of Cidade da Praia.
Very intertwined with the mango, pomegranate, papaya trees coconut palms and sugar cane plantations.
Raw, very good rehabilitation works and masonry execution here thankfully taken to fruition."
Afonso p
"There's an old lady trying to scam tourists near the old church by selling them fake entrance ticket. Ignore her, the visit of the site is free.
A real disgrace for Cabo Verde and a disgrace in a holy place."
Julien Rapin
"Renovated church and ruins of the Monastery of St. Francis from the XVII century. An absolute must see - the ruins are not very impressive but together with the lush green surroundings will make you feel you're going 500 years back in time. Buy the combined ticket at the Fort (500 escudos) to visit. Explore the nearby wildlife of monkeys, kingfish birds and goats."
André Rendeiro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The São Francisco Convent Ruins are located in Cidade Velha, the historic capital of Cape Verde. You can typically reach Cidade Velha by taxi or local transport from Praia. Once in Cidade Velha, the ruins are a prominent landmark within the historic center.
Yes, the ruins are a central part of Cidade Velha and are generally easy to locate. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to the 'Convento de São Francisco'.
Exploring Cidade Velha on foot is the best way to soak in the history and atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The visit to the São Francisco Convent Ruins is generally free. However, be aware of individuals who may try to sell fake entrance tickets; ignore them as the site is free to explore.
Yes, you can often purchase a combined ticket that includes entry to the Fort and the Monastery of St. Francis ruins. This offers a more comprehensive historical experience.
While the ruins themselves are accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the optimal experience and safety. Specific official opening hours might vary, so checking locally is advised.
The entrance to the São Francisco Convent Ruins is typically free. If a combined ticket is purchased for other sites, the price is usually around 500 escudos or 5€.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find the renovated church and the ruins of the 17th-century Monastery of St. Francis. The site is surrounded by lush vegetation, including mango and pomegranate trees, creating a unique atmosphere.
The ruins and surrounding paths can be uneven and may present challenges for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to proceed with caution and consider assistance if needed.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, local guides may offer their services. It's also possible to explore independently and use historical information to enhance your visit.
Visitors have reported seeing monkeys, kingfishers, and goats in the vicinity of the ruins, adding to the natural charm of the location.
Photography is generally allowed at the São Francisco Convent Ruins, allowing you to capture the historical architecture and natural beauty. However, always be respectful of the site.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Surroundings
The ruins are beautifully intertwined with a variety of tropical trees and plants, including mango, pomegranate, papaya, and coconut palms, creating a vibrant and lush setting.
Keep an eye out for the characteristic mango, pomegranate, papaya trees, and coconut palms that thrive in the area, contributing to the site's unique ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit