Encontram na praça. Meet me at the square.
The people in Mindelo still say this a lot. Although times have changed, this hasn't. Sure, it's not the same as the 'pre-internet era', when the main square of the city was where it all seemed to happen.
When people in Mindelo talk about 'the square', they usually mean Praça Amilcar Cabral. That's why it's simply known as praça. Because of it's central location in Mindelo's city center, it is still the number one meetingpoint today.
Now, it's mostly on Sundays and during events that people love to come together at the praça. For those traveling with kids, taking them to the square on Sunday is a good idea. Besides buying some candy or ice cream, they can find many other kids to play with.
There are a few bars on and around praça Amilcar Cabral, two banks (plus ATM's) and a travel agency. The headquarters of CV Movel is located there as well.
The square is seen as the start of Cabo Verdean democracy. In the one-party period after the country's independance, the first talks for the creation of a new political party started there. For different reasons, it's a must see when visiting the city of Mindelo.
Others
Praça Amilcar Cabral is not the only square in Mindelo.
Another important one is praça Estrela. This part of the city center is known for the commerce. One one side you can find many shops where you can buy clothing and souvenirs. Something that's interesting to see on this side is the way the history of Mindelo is painted on the walls.
Praça Estrela is also a hub for public transportation to places outside Mindelo. If you want to head to the villages this is where you go. Destinations are São Pedro, Calhau and Salamansa/Baia das Gatas. Most transportation is done by van, which we call a Hiace or Aluguer (or Colectivo).
Praça de Igreja
The story of Mindelo that you'll find on praça Estrela started on praça de Igreja. This is actually Mindelo's first square and the first church of the city. It's from here that people started to built the city, back when the port of Mindelo began to grow thanks to a new established coal factory.
Today both the square and church still exist. There are a few shops around the square. Thanks to a quality bakery on the corner the smell of fresh baked bread is always around. The square is home to a few traditional shoemakers. It's where I used to get my futsal shoes done.
Another square in Mindelo is just down from praça de Igreja. Praça Dom Luis is home to one of the most impressive artworks I've ever seen. The large Cesaria on the wall needs to be seen if you're in the city.