Location: Horta, Azores
After a very packed day yesterday, we took today to wind own. Time blocks were sectioned off for our Sea Navigation exam, but otherwise, we had the freedom to choose our adventures today (many of us exercised our freedom in the form of a well-deserved nap). The city of Horta is situated here in the Azores archipelago, an island chain that sits on three continental plate boundaries. Africa, North America, and Europe. The archipelago’s volcanoes are highly active and play a large part in the way of life here in the Azores. Volcanic rock is used to build many of the structures around here, including houses, vineyard walls, and hiking trails. Lava tunnels and calderas are among the many interesting geological/geographical points of interest on the islands.
In addition to its natural history, the Azores also have a rich cultural and historical background. The first two villages built by Portugal were established around 1425, though there is evidence to suggest at some point in time, there may have been inhabitants prior to this. After settlement in the Azores began to increase, it became quite prominent in the whaling industry. However, the practice of whaling has since been banned in 1580; king henry of Portugal died without a legitimate heir leading to the King of Spain claiming the right to the Portuguese throne and leading to many forts (one of which is pictured in this blog) being constructed in order to fend off the Spanish attempts to usurp the archipelago.
Sometime later, the Azores would become an essential strategic point during world war 2. Portugal, which had tried to remain neutral during this war, was forced to enter into the fray during attacks from German U-Boats and plots by the British to annex the Archipelago.
Today the island enjoys beautiful scenery, and all of us have been raving about how cheap Faial Island is for such a touristy destination. They’re truly a hidden gem.