Sao tome: Sao Tome and Principe’s “Rocas” – colonial-era plantations – have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2026, in recognition of their architecture and their fundamental importance to the country’s history. While the majority of them now lie derelict, they are attracting increasing interest from investors keen to develop the tourism potential of the history-steeped buildings.
According to France24.com, these plantations, once driven by forced labor, have become significant cultural landmarks. The recognition by UNESCO highlights the historical value of these sites, which played a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of Sao Tome and Principe. The architectural designs of the “Rocas” reflect the colonial past and offer a window into the era of their operation.
The inclusion of these plantations on the World Heritage List is expected to boost tourism, providing an opportunity for economic development in the region. Investors are increasingly interested in restoring these
structures, aiming to preserve their historical integrity while making them accessible to visitors. The transformation of these sites from symbols of exploitation to celebrated heritage landmarks underscores a shift towards acknowledging and preserving the complex history of the islands.