The Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 1,400 km west of the Portuguese mainland. Together with Madeira, it forms one of the two autonomous regions of Portugal and is a special territory of the European Union. It is the westernmost point and region of Portugal, and its islands lie in the Macaronesia region. Mount Pico, on Pico Island, is the highest point in Portugal.
Geography and climate
The islands form three main groups, with Flores and Corvo to the west, Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico and Faial in the centre, and São Miguel, Santa Maria and the Formigas islets to the east. All of them have volcanic origins, and the archipelago sits on the seismically active Azores triple junction, where three tectonic plates meet. The climate is mild because of the distance from continents and the passing Gulf Stream, with daytime temperatures usually between 16 and 25 °C and generally wet, cloudy weather.
Settlement and discovery
The islands were discovered and settled in the 15th century under the direction of Prince Henry the Navigator, with settlers coming mainly from mainland Portugal. Flemish settlers arrived later, and by 1490 about 2,000 Flemings lived on several islands, which led to the archipelago being called the Flemish Islands. Some reports suggest earlier human presence, but these claims remain unconfirmed.
Economy and culture
Agriculture, dairy farming, livestock, fishing and tourism are the main industries, and the government employs a large share of the population. In the 20th century the islands served as a refuelling point for aircraft flying between Europe and North America. Ponta Delgada is the largest city, and the culture, dialect, cuisine and traditions differ noticeably from island to island.
