National emblem of Cape Verde National emblem of Cape Verde The national emblem of Cape Verde contains a circle within which is written the name of the nation in Portuguese. Within the circle are a torch and triangle, symbols of freedom and national unity. At the top of the shield is a plumbob, a symbol of righteousness; three chain links are at the bottom. This emblem replaces the earlier variant with the seashell that had been in use since independence. The current emblem was adopted in 1992. On 8 May 1935, Portugal introduced a new coat of arms for its colonies, including Cape Verde, São
Administrative divisions of Cape Verde Administrative divisions of Cape Verde The territory of Cape Verde is divided into 22 concelhos (municipalities), and subdivided into 32 freguesias (equivalent to civil parish). In Portuguese language usage, there are two words to distinguish the territory and the administrative organ. Administratively, right below the government, there are the municípios (municipalities), who administrate the "concelhos". Therefore, the "concelhos" are the first-level administrative subdivision in Cape Verde. Each municipality has an "Assembleia Municipal" (municipal assembly, the legislative body) and a "Câmara Municipal" (municipal chamber, the executive body). Every four years elections are held for the Assembleia Municipal, the Câmara Municipal and