largest and most populous island of Cape Verde, in the Atlantic Ocean, about 400 miles (640 km) off the West African coast. The land rises to its highest elevation at Antónia Peak, 4,566 feet (1,392 metres) above sea level.

São Tiago is Cape Verde's most agriculturally productive island. Corn (maize) is the main crop; bananas, oranges, sugarcane, coffee, and castor beans are also grown. Fishing is important, and a new trading port has been planned for the city of Tarrafal, on the northwest coast. Praia, on the south shore of the island, is the capital of Cape Verde. Area 383 square miles (991 square km). Pop. (2005) 266,161.