São Tomé

Click a letter for the index

Or search the encyclopaedia:

 

 

Go

 

Port and capital of the island state of São Tomée Príncipe, on the northeast coast of the island, Gulf of Guinea; population (2007 est) 65,400. It is the chief seaport of the island and exports sugar, cocoa, copra, bananas, and coffee. Local industries include soap and brick and tile manufacture. It is served by an international airport.

The town dates from the 1480s when the Portuguese sent settlers and imported African slaves to grow sugar on São Tomé.

The white saltire comes from the flag of Scotland. The St Patrick's Cross was, in fact, taken from the arms of the powerful Geraldine family. The red cross of St George is taken from the flag of England. Effective date: 1 January 1801. >>