The roças of São Tomé and Príncipe are windows into the colonial past of the islands, a time when the local economy was dominated by cocoa and coffee plantations. Today, these historic plantations offer a deep insight into the cultural, economic, and social impacts of the colonial era, while continuing to be a vital component of the islands’ identity. Let’s explore some of the most emblematic roças and discover how they have evolved over the years.

Roça São João dos Angolares

Located in the southern part of São Tomé, Roça São João dos Angolares is one of the best-preserved plantations. Under the visionary leadership of chef João Carlos Silva, this roça has been transformed into a cultural and gastronomic hub. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the property, learn about its history, and taste traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients at the roça’s restaurant.

Roça Agostinho Neto

Formerly known as Roça Rio do Ouro, Roça Agostinho Neto is one of the largest and oldest plantations in São Tomé. This roça provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into the operations of a cocoa and coffee plantation. Retaining much of its original infrastructure, the roça is essentially an open-air museum, complete with antique machinery and colonial buildings.

Roça Monte Café

Nestled in São Tomé’s lush mountains, Roça Monte Café is renowned for its historical coffee production. The site now houses a coffee museum, where visitors can learn about the coffee cultivation and production process, from harvest to cup. The museum also delves into the history of the roça’s workers and the legacy of slavery and indentured servitude on the islands.

Roça Sundy

On Príncipe Island, Roça Sundy is historically significant not only for its cocoa production but also as the site where the 1919 Solar Eclipse was observed, helping to confirm Einstein’s theory of relativity. The roça features a small museum dedicated to this important scientific event and remains a point of interest for both scientific and agricultural history.

Impact and Transformation

The roças are not merely relics of the past; they are living witnesses to social and economic changes in São Tomé and Príncipe. Many of these plantations are being revitalized to promote sustainable tourism, offering visitors the chance to learn about sustainable agriculture and community development.

Visiting the Roças

When visiting the roças, tourists not only gain a deeper understanding of São Tomé and Príncipe’s history and culture but also contribute to the local economy. Many roças offer lodging, meals, and activities that involve the local community, providing an immersive and authentic experience.

The roças of São Tomé and Príncipe are more than just tourist attractions; they are centers of learning and culture that offer a window into the islands’ colonial past while pointing towards a future of renewal and sustainability. Exploring these historic plantations allows visitors to experience an integral part of the islands’ identity, rich with history, challenges, and hope.