The Blue Island
Known for the blue hydrangeas and the famous Horta marina, a meeting point for trans-Atlantic sailors.
Population
14,466
Area
173 km²
Parishes
13
Tourism, Maritime services (marina), Agriculture, Fishing, Blue Economy (Ocean Sciences)
Horta Marina, Peter's Café Sport, Caldeira do Faial, Capelinhos Volcano, Praia do Porto Pim, Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center
Horta was an important hub for trans-Atlantic shipping, first for whalers and later for submarine communication cables. The city was elevated to city status in 1833 and is the legislative capital of the Azores.
The Horta marina is a famous stop for trans-Atlantic sailors, who decorate the walls and pontoons with paintings for good luck. The city is known as the 'Sea City' and Faial island as the 'Blue Island' due to the hydrangeas.