For its tiny size, Cape Verde has produced a wealth of literature. The works written prior to independence focused on liberation and were mainly in Crioulo. Cape Verde is home to a variety of musical styles. The country's best-known musician is Cesaria Evora, the 'barefoot diva', who sings in the traditional Cabo styles. Cape Verdean food is basically Portuguese, but some dishes are unique to the islands.
Soups are also popular.
At the time of independence in 1975, the Church was the single largest landowner in the country. Subsequent land reform has reduced these holdings, but the Church remains powerful in the country. Many of the islands are arid and hilly, and cultivation of the hillsides has caused widespread soil erosion. Common plants in the islands include rhododendrons, the fire tree, dragon tree, marmulano, corn plant and the Florida Beauty dracaena. Among the islands' most colourful fauna are its coral and fish, especially in the waters around Sal, where you'll see parrot fish, barracuda and moray eels.