Fact 1: Nature's Diverse Gem
Did you know that Sao Tome and Principe, an African island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, boasts an extraordinary range of biodiversity despite its tiny size? The islands house an immense variety of unique species found nowhere else on Earth, including approximately 95 types of birds, 15 species of bats, and a plethora of orchids. Its distinctive wildlife has even earned it the nickname "African Galapagos."
Fact 2: Land of the Giants
Continuing with the theme of interesting wildlife, Sao Tome and Principe is home to some of the world's smallest and largest creatures. The world's smallest ibis, appropriately named the dwarf ibis, and the largest sunbird, the giant sunbird, both call the islands home.
Fact 3: The Fine Choco Beginnings
One remarkable fact about Sao Tome and Principe is its connection with the fine chocolate industry. In the 19th century, Sao Tome was the largest producer of cocoa globally, giving it the nickname ‘Chocolate Islands’. Several companies still produce organic and fair-trade chocolate on the islands.
Fact 4: Not an Original Native in Sight
Interestingly, Sao Tome and Principe has no indigenous population. Its inhabitants are descendants of slaves brought from the African mainland by Portuguese colonists. The mixture of ethnic groups led to a rich cultural diversity evident in the islands' music, dance, art, and culinary traditions.
Fact 5: A Musical Marvel
Music deeply ingrains itself in the fabric of Sao Tome and Principe’s culture. A unique form of music called "puxa" originated in these islands and features a fascinating mix of Portuguese, African, and Brazilian influences. This rhythm-laden musical style acts as a backdrop for most social gatherings.
Fact 6: A Rare Language
The creole dialect Forro is spoken almost exclusively in Sao Tome and Principe. The language, which blends Portuguese and various African languages, reflects the country's colonial past and rich, multi-ethnic background.
Fact 7: One Impressive Bird Mural
The capital city, Sao Tome, proudly displays a vast mural dedicated to the nation's endemic bird species. This mural, found on The National Museum's exterior, celebrates the island's unique biodiversity.
Fact 8: Earth’s Bellybutton
Sao Tome and Principe is often referred to as the "Centre of the World," or "Earth’s bellybutton," as the equator and the zero meridian cross just off the southwestern coast. This unique geographical location grants it a delightful climate year-round.
Fact 9: Cultural Celebrations
Festivals play a significant role in the culture of Sao Tome and Principe. The locals celebrate their independence day on July 12th with vibrant parades, dances, and music. Another major event is the Tchiloli Festival, a traditional masked dance-drama that narrates medieval European stories.
Fact 10: The Miracle Fruit
The island nation is home to a fascinating fruit known as the miracle fruit or magic berry. When consumed, this berry makes sour foods taste remarkably sweet.
Fact 11: The Roça System Legacy
The Roça system, an agricultural plantation model, was introduced during Portuguese colonization. Though no longer functional, these plantations impart a snapshot of colonial history with their colonial-era buildings and cultivated plots.
Fact 12: A Haven for Turtles
Sao Tome and Principe is an important nesting ground for sea turtles, particularly the hawksbill and leatherback turtle. Several conservation projects operate on the islands to protect these beautiful creatures.
Fact 13: The Stilt Houses of Santana
In the picturesque coastal town of Santana, dwellings built on stilts over the water are a delightfully interesting sight. These unique structures, known as palafitas, are a testament to the adaptability and resourcefulness of the local people.
Fact 14: The Ghost Town
One of Sao Tome's most curious locations is the ghost town of Agostinho Neto, an abandoned plantation. Its semi-decayed, overgrown buildings resonate eerily with the history of the islands' colonial past.
Fact 15: Mixture of Religions
The population of Sao Tome and Principe is predominantly Christian, with a blend of Catholic and Protestant followers. However, several residents also adhere to African belief systems and rituals known as 'Traditional African religions'.
Fact 16: Casa Blanca, The Safest Jail
The islands house a prison named Casa Blanca, where, interestingly, there are no guards. The isolation of Sao Tome and Principe makes escape virtually impossible, resulting in an "open prison" system.
Fact 17: The Coffee of Principe
Principe, the smaller of the two main islands, is well-known for its excellent coffee. The island's rich volcanic soils and tropical climate create ideal conditions for growing these aromatic beans.
Fact 18: Romantic Beaches
Sao Tome and Principe are also known for their incredibly romantic beaches. Praia Jale, a pristine and quiet beach on Sao Tome island, is famous as a nesting ground for sea turtles, adding to its mystique.
Fact 19: Delicious Diet
The traditional diet of the islands mainly consists of fish and root vegetables, reflecting their tropical location. Also, local cuisine features several tropical fruits like avocados, bananas, and pawpaws.
Fact 20: A Future in Tourism
Though Sao Tome and Principe have stayed relatively un-touristed, the nation has great potential as a tourist destination. Its pleasing climate, beautiful beaches, interesting history, unique wildlife, and welcoming locals, invite a future of exciting exploration and discovery.