Sao Tome Geschichte : die Plantagen - Roças

.

What is a Roça ?

In São Tomé and Príncipe, a "Roça" is a term that refers to a plantation estate, particularly those established during the colonial era when the Portuguese ruled the islands. The concept is similar to that of plantations or haciendas in other parts of the world. Historically, these roças were the centers of agricultural production, with vast areas dedicated primarily to the cultivation of cash crops such as sugar, cocoa, and coffee.

These estates played a pivotal role in São Tomé and Príncipe's economy and social structure. Large numbers of laborers, often working in arduous conditions, would live and work on the Roças, which were almost self-sufficient communities with their own hospitals, schools, and shops. The structure of a Roça would typically include the main house (Casa Grande) where the plantation owner or the administrator lived, workers' quarters (senzalas), and various agricultural and processing facilities.

After the country gained independence in 1975, many of these plantations were nationalized, and over time, some fell into disrepair due to economic challenges and changes in the global market. However, many of the Roças have survived and even preserved their colonial architecture to varying degrees. Some have been repurposed into lodgings, museums, and cultural centers that tell the story of the islands' colonial past and contemporary agricultural practices.

When visitors visit a Roça, they are stepping into a part of São Tomé's history and can learn about the past agricultural practices, see the colonial-era buildings, and understand the challenging history, including the legacies of slavery and colonialism. It is also an opportunity to appreciate the ongoing role of these estates in the economy of São Tomé and Príncipe, especially those that continue to produce coffee and cocoa. Visiting a Roça, therefore, is not only a journey to a serene and pastoral landscape, but also an educational and reflective experience that reveals much about the islands' past and present.

Roca Larangeiros in Sao Tome

Roças of São Tomé and Príncipe: A Cultural and Architectural Heritage

The Origin and Meaning of "Roça"

The word "roça" originates from the act of "clearing brush" and refers to agricultural practices deeply embedded in the history of São Tomé and Príncipe. While it denotes lands used for cultivation, the notion of "roça" goes beyond mere planting. It symbolizes the intersection of culture, economy, and society, reflecting the tropical influences that have shaped the archipelago's agriculture. The transition from terms like "engenho" and "fazenda" to "roça" characterizes an evolutionary process that unites elements from Portuguese, Brazilian, and African agrarian systems.

The Evolution of Roças in the Archipelago's History

Roças began to proliferate in São Tomé and Príncipe during the coffee and cocoa cycles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, the islands became an important center for agricultural production, implementing techniques aimed at maximizing productivity. The use of enslaved labor and free workers marked these settlements, generating a complex social context that still resonates in today's society.

The rural property model in the roças evolved from agricultural practices observed in other tropical regions, such as Brazil. The structures of the roças often incorporated architectural elements from Brazilian farms, yet adapted to the climatic and cultural specifics of São Tomé and Príncipe. This cultural and architectural syncretism has made the roças symbols of national identity.

Structures and Typologies of Roças

The roças in São Tomé and Príncipe are notable for their structural and functional complexity. They can be categorically subdivided into three main typologies: roça-terreiro, roça-avenida, and roça-cidade.

Roça-Terreiro: This typology is the simplest and represents the primary settlement model. Organized around a central space known as the terreiro, these roças exhibit flexible designs that easily adapt to various geographical conditions.

Roça-Avenida: Characterized by a more planned configuration, the roça-avenida is organized around a central axis connecting different terreiros and buildings. This model reflects a more advanced phase in the understanding of agricultural practices and strategies for land occupation.

Roça-Cidade: This typology represents a true urban aggregation, with a network of streets and squares facilitating social interaction and commerce. The roça-cidade, like Água Izé, exemplifies how roças can evolve into significant urban complexities, showcasing the integration of agriculture and urbanization.

Roças as Engines of Social Change

The impact of roças on the social and economic development of São Tomé and Príncipe cannot be overstated. In addition to being vital for agricultural production, they served as centers of cultural convergence, facilitating the mixing of different ethnicities and traditions. The diversity of the communities formed within the roças contributed to a rich cultural picture of STP, reflected in local festivities, cuisine, and social practices.

The abolition of slavery in 1875 also brought significant changes. New regulations were introduced to improve working and living conditions for laborers, who were now contracted workers. This process of modernization in the management of roças during the early 20th century led to the creation of essential health and education infrastructures, crucial for human development in the region.

The Importance of Preserving the Heritage of Roças

Today, the roças of São Tomé and Príncipe represent not only an architectural heritage but also a living testament to the social and economic evolution of the islands. They symbolize the Lusophone culture and the resilience and adaptability of its people.Investing in the appreciation and preservation of roças should be a priority and efforts to revitalize cultural tourism around these structures.