São Vicente São Vicente (Soncent) is the second most populous island of Cape Verde, located in the Barlavento group, to the northwest of the archipelago. The São Vicente Channel separates it from the neighboring island of Santo Antão. The Cesária Évora International Airport, located south of the city of Mindelo, the island’s main urban center, is also the second largest airport in the country. Mindelo, with its vibrant cultural and artistic life, is home to a large part of the island's population, which totals approximately 74,136 inhabitants. The city is often considered the cultural heart of Cape Verde. The island, with its arid and mountainous landscape, has its main sources of income in fishing, tourism, and the bustling Porto Grande, one of the largest commercial ports in the country. São Vicente is known for its gastronomy, with dishes that reflect the richness of the sea. Among the most popular are "arroz de cabidela de marisco à Dadal," "guisado de percebes," and, of course, the famous "cachupa," a traditional Cape Verdean dish. In addition, the island hosts the renowned Baía das Gatas International Music Festival, which takes place annually on the first weekend of the full moon in August, attracting musicians and tourists from around the world. São Vicente is also the birthplace of the iconic singer Cesária Évora, the "barefoot diva," whose voice and talent brought Cape Verdean music to all corners of the globe.