The islands of Cape Verde are divided into two main groups: the Barlavento Islands ("Windward Islands") and the Sotavento Islands ("Leeward Islands"). The Barlavento Islands include Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal and Boa Vista, while the Sotavento Islands include Maio, Santiago, Fogo and Brava.
Cape Verde's strategic location in the Atlantic Ocean has made it an important stopover for ships traveling between Europe, Africa and the Americas, and it has a long history of being used as a trading hub. The country is also known for its strong cultural heritage and its vibrant music and dance traditions, including the famous Morna and Funaná music genres.