Praia de Chaves and the Chaminé

The defining feature of this beach is the prominent chimney that stands near the coast. This chimney is a remnant of the island’s ceramic production in the past, a testament to the historical significance of this industry. It adds a distinctive element to the beach, creating an intriguing juxtaposition of industrial heritage against the backdrop of crystal-clear sands and turquoise waters.

In Boa Vista, between Rabil and Praia de Chaves, a factory operated at the beginning of the last century for the production of bricks and tiles, boasting industrial infrastructure at the level of European technology of that time.

The factory primarily produced for export to countries in West Africa, but it closed its doors around 1928 for reasons still unknown.

Its products were of high quality, as it operated with modern techniques for that era. It employed several dozen workers from other islands, not just from Boa Vista.

The still-intact chimney stands prominently over the dunes of Praia de Chaves, a testimony to this grand enterprise whose ruins are almost entirely submerged by sand and the memories of the island.

Another initiative in the sector took place in the late 1950s, by order of the Colonial Administration. The Chaves Pottery School was established, and with the installation of manual presses, it began production of tiles and other wheel-thrown products. It was during this time that the foot-powered potter’s wheel was introduced, although it never really took hold. The Pottery School closed with the advent of independence.