Mindelo is a port city located in the northern part of the island of São Vicente in Cape Verde. It serves as the seat of the municipality of São Vicente and the parish of Nossa Senhora da Luz. The city is highly urbanized, housing 93% of the entire island's population.
As the second most populous city in Cape Verde and the largest city in the Barlavento Islands, Mindelo is recognized as the nation's cultural capital. It is particularly known for its colorful and animated carnival celebrations, which originated in Portuguese traditions before being influenced by Brazilian culture.