Sal Rei history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Sal Rei is inextricably linked to the development of natural resources on the island of Boa Vista. Although the island itself was discovered by Portuguese navigators as early as the 15th century, the settlement at the site of the modern city began to develop actively much later, becoming an important centre only by the 19th century. The city received its name, which literally translates as "King of Salt," thanks to the extensive salt flats in its vicinity that determined the destiny of the region.

Key Factors of Establishment

The transformation of Sal Rei into the island's main city and administrative centre was driven by a combination of unique geographical and economic reasons:

• "White Gold" Mining: Salt production became the city-forming factor. Local salt was distinguished by its highest quality and was exported in large volumes, which attracted traders.
• Convenient Harbour: The city's bay, protected by the small islet of Ilhéu de Sal Rei, provided a safe anchorage for merchant ships. This gave the settlement an advantage over the island's old capital, located inland.
• Trade Routes: Thanks to the port, the city became a vital hub on Atlantic maritime routes, connecting the archipelago with Europe and the Americas.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

During its early development, Sal Rei was formed as a cosmopolitan trading port. The city's economy was built on salt exports and servicing foreign vessels. This prosperity was reflected in the architecture: sobrados began to appear here—two-story colonial mansions belonging to wealthy families. The cultural environment of the city was shaped by the constant contact of local residents with seafarers from different countries, which laid the foundation for the open and hospitable character of the local population.

Major Milestones in the History of Sal Rei

• 1460: Portuguese navigators discover the island of Boa Vista, though the territory of the future city remains uninhabited for a long time.
• 17th Century: Active development of salt deposits in the lagoons begins, serving as a stimulus for the emergence of a permanent settlement.
• 1818: Construction of the Fort Duque de Bragança is completed on the islet opposite the harbour to protect merchant ships and salt warehouses.
• Mid-19th Century: The city experiences an economic boom thanks to the export of "royal salt" and becomes an important Atlantic trade hub.
• 1850s: Arrival of Jewish families from North Africa, who had a significant influence on the architectural appearance and trade of the city.
• Late 19th Century: Sal Rei officially replaces Rabil as the main administrative and economic centre of Boa Vista Island.
• 1917: Creation of the Catholic Parish of Saint Isabel, which became a spiritual centre for the city's residents.
• 1975: After the proclamation of Cabo Verde's independence, Sal Rei becomes the capital of the Boa Vista municipality within the new state.
• 2007: Opening of the Aristides Pereira International Airport near the city, launching the development of international tourism.
• 2010s: Large-scale modernization of urban infrastructure and the waterfront, transforming Sal Rei into a popular resort centre.

Key Stages of Sal Rei's Development

The development of Sal Rei is a story of transformation from a small settlement by the salt mines into a lively tourist centre. The evolution of the city can be divided into several significant stages, each of which radically changed its appearance and economy.

• The Era of the "Salt Route" and British Influence
  In the 18th–19th centuries, the city became a key link in transatlantic trade. Salt mining attracted British merchants, leading to the primary economic boom. The significance of this stage is colossal: it was these trade connections that laid the financial foundation for the construction of permanent buildings and port development.
• Construction of Fort Duque de Bragança
  The erection of fortifications on the islet of Ilhéu de Sal Rei was a turning point in urban planning. Protecting the harbour from pirates and corsairs made the port safe, allowing the city to seize primacy from the old island capital—Rabil. This secured Sal Rei's status as the main maritime gateway of Boa Vista.
• Architectural Flourishing and the Appearance of "Sobrados"
  In the mid-19th century, the unique architectural look of the centre was formed. The construction of two-story mansions (sobrados) by the local aristocracy and merchants marked the cultural flourishing of the city. These buildings still serve as the calling card of Sal Rei, attracting history enthusiasts.
• Administrative Centralization
  The official transfer of the island's administrative centre to Sal Rei in the late 19th century finally consolidated its dominant position. This led to the concentration of government institutions, schools, and services right here, stimulating an influx of population from other parts of the island.
• Opening of Aristides Pereira International Airport
  The launch of a modern airport in the immediate vicinity of the city became the main economic driver of the 21st century. This event reoriented the economy from fishing to the service sector, opening Sal Rei to mass international tourists and major investors.
• Resort Urbanization
  In recent decades, the city has been experiencing a construction boom. The active construction of hotels, the improvement of the waterfront, and the creation of beach infrastructure have turned the port city into a full-fledged resort, changing the lifestyle of the local population and creating new jobs.

Architectural Appearance and Construction Stages

The architecture of Sal Rei reflects its history as a trading port and salt mining centre, and in recent years, as a developing resort. Unlike old European cities, there is no medieval Gothic or lavish Baroque here. The city's appearance was formed primarily in the 19th and 20th centuries, creating an eclectic combination of colonial style and modern resort development.

Main Architectural Eras

• Military Architecture (Early 19th Century)
  The earliest significant structure is the Fort Duque de Bragança (Forte Duque de Bragança), built in 1818 on the islet of Ilhéu de Sal Rei. Although now picturesque ruins, they demonstrate the classic style of fortifications of that era, designed to protect the harbour from pirates.
• Colonial Style and the "Sobrado" Era (Mid to Late 19th Century)
  The period of economic prosperity linked to the salt trade gave the city its historical face. The style of this time is characterized by the construction of sobrados—two-story mansions in the Portuguese colonial style.
  • Characteristic features: Bright pastel facades, wooden balconies, tiled roofs, and inner courtyards. The ground floor was usually used for trade, and the first floor for living.
  • Iconic places: The historical centre around the main square, Praça de Santa Isabel.
• Religious Architecture (Neoclassical and Colonial Motifs)
  The dominant feature of the centre is the Church of Saint Isabel (Igreja da Santa Isabel), built in a colonial style with elements of neoclassicism. Its facade in sand-yellow and blue tones has become one of the symbols of the city, reflecting the modest yet harmonious aesthetics of island architecture.
• Modern Functionalism and Resort Urbanization (21st Century)
  With the development of tourism, the city began to expand rapidly beyond the historical core. New development is often practical and functional.
  • Features: The use of concrete, flat roofs, and sometimes unfinished facades (a characteristic feature in Cabo Verde). Along the coast (Praia de Cabral and Estoril districts), modern resort architecture prevails: apartment hotels and villas oriented towards ocean views.

Urban Planning Structure

The layout of Sal Rei is dictated by the geography of the coastline. The city stretches along a wide bay, which serves as natural protection from ocean waves.

• Historical Core: Compactly located near the port and pier. Administrative life, the market, and old colonial buildings are concentrated here. The streets retain the atmosphere of a small settlement.
• Periphery and Expansion: The city is growing north and south along the beaches. In these areas, urban planning is less ordered, with residential quarters for locals and tourist complexes predominating, creating a contrast with the cosy historical centre.

Distinguished Personalities of Sal Rei and Boa Vista

The history and culture of Sal Rei are inextricably linked to the people who were born here or made an invaluable contribution to the development of the city and the entire island of Boa Vista. From independence fighters to masters of words and music, these individuals shaped the unique character of the region.

• Aristides Pereira
  First President of Cabo Verde, political figure (1923–2011)
  A native of Boa Vista island, Pereira became a key figure in the country's struggle for independence from Portugal. He was a comrade-in-arms of Amílcar Cabral and the first head of the sovereign state. Today, the international airport located just a few kilometres from Sal Rei bears his name, highlighting his significance to the city.
• Germano Almeida
  Writer and lawyer (born 1945)
  One of the most translated and renowned writers of Cabo Verde, and a laureate of the prestigious Camões Prize. Born on Boa Vista, his works, full of irony and love for his homeland, often describe the daily life and customs of the islanders. Almeida has made a huge contribution to popularizing the archipelago's culture on the international stage.
• The Benoliel Family
  Merchants and entrepreneurs (19th Century)
  A family of merchants from Morocco who played a decisive role in the economic flourishing of Sal Rei in the 19th century. They developed the salt trade and shipping, turning the city into an important commercial port. Their memory is preserved by the historic Jewish cemetery located near the city, which is an important cultural monument.
• Luís Bastos
  Composer and musician (20th Century)
  An outstanding representative of the island's musical tradition, a master of the clarinet and violin. Bastos is considered one of the classics of the Morna genre—the soulful and melancholic music of Cabo Verde. His compositions, inspired by the landscapes and life of Boa Vista, have become an integral part of the city's cultural code.
• Joaquim Almeida "Morgadinho"
  Musician, composer, and singer
  A legendary figure in Cabo Verdean music, a member of the famous group "Voz de Cabo Verde". A native of Boa Vista, he glorified his home island in songs, many of which became folk hits. His work continues to inspire young musicians in Sal Rei.