The Lilac Island
UNESCO World Heritage city Angra do Heroísmo and important military base. Rich in history and culture.
Population
33,701
Area
239 km²
Parishes
19
Annual turnover €603 million (2020), 12.8% of the Azores region
Tourism, Agriculture (dairy and livestock), Commerce, Services, Construction, Agri-food
Monte Brasil, Duke of Terceira Garden, Sé Cathedral, Fortaleza de São João Batista, Palácio dos Capitães Generais, Alto da Memória, Algar do Carvão
The city, founded in 1478, was a mandatory stopover for fleets during the Age of Discovery and played a crucial role in trans-Atlantic trade. The historic center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1983.
UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique Renaissance street plan and military architecture. The first European city in the Atlantic Ocean and the first capital of the Azores.
Population
19,862
Area
161 km²
Parishes
11
Service sector (Lajes Air Base), Tourism, Commerce, Port activities, Agriculture (dairy products)
Serra do Cume Viewpoint, Vitória Beach, Miradouro Do Facho, Historic Center, Praia da Vitória Marina, Fort Santa Catarina
The municipality was originally founded as Vila da Praia around 1456. After the victory of the Liberals over the Absolutists in the Naval Battle of Praia in 1829, the name was changed in 1837 by Queen Maria II to Praia da Vitória (Beach of Victory).
Home to Lajes Air Base, an important military base of the United States and Portugal. One of the few sandy beaches on Terceira and an important commercial port.