Assomada

Assomada links the agricultural hinterland of Santiago with the island's wider trading network. Produce from Santa Catarina passes through its markets towards Praia and Tarrafal, giving commerce a central role in the town's relationship with surrounding rural settlements.

Its urban life extends beyond purpose-built market buildings. Architectural research documents the historic Pelourinho market and the newer municipal market, alongside informal trading that occupies streets elsewhere in the city. This overlap between market space and ordinary public space is a defining aspect of Assomada's urban character. Educational functions also form part of its centre, where the University of Santiago maintains its Bolanha campus.