Terceira's port once welcomed galleons laden with spices from the Orient, and gold and silver from the Americas.
Even today, its historic city streets bring memories of the 16th and 17th century centuries. Out in the country, flat green fields in a chessboard pattern are dotted with dairy cows, and white houses nestle against the blue sky. Terceira's locals have been welcoming people to the island for centuries. With its seamless blend of past and present, Terceira provides the backdrop for an exciting and complete holiday.
Built in the 16 century, Angra do Heroismo was the first European urban centre, and has achieved World Heritage status as a result. Its old streets highlight the city's fine architectural heritage, as do its churches, palaces and museums, together with the fortress that defended the city and port from pirates. The historic town of Praia da Vitoria with the gothic church of Sao Sebastiao, built by the first settlers, and the manor houses, churches and chapels of Sao Carlos, Fontinha, Sao Bras and Lajes are masterpieces of imperial architecture dedicated to the cult of the Holy Ghost.
Terceira's unspoilt countryside complements the fine historical monuments of its towns. The island boasts green landscapes and mountain ranges that are great for walks, beyond which you can glimpse flower-dotted fields and the blue of the sea and sky. A walk in the hills will also unearth some of Terceira's geological wonders, like the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz, a 15 km wide volcanic crater, and the caves of Algar do Carvao with its lava stalactites and stalagmites.
The surrounding sea offers much for those wanting an active holiday. Fishing, diving, surfing, windsurfing and sailing are the main sports on the island. From May to September, Terceira is the scene of many colourful traditional festivals.
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