This historic church is one of the oldest and most significant on the island. Located in the village of Santa Cruz da Graciosa, the church features traditional Azorean architecture, with volcanic stone details and an elegant interior. It’s an active place of worship, but also a tourist attraction that reflects […]
Places to visit in Graciosa
6 posts
Located on the northern coast of Graciosa, Porto Afonso is known for its impressive volcanic rock formations, creating a dramatic backdrop against the ocean. The natural pools formed by lava are a popular spot for swimming and relaxing, especially during the summer. The region is also a great spot for […]
Located in the center of the island, this caldera is the result of the collapse of an extinct volcano. The area around the caldera is ideal for hiking and nature walks, with trails offering panoramic views of the island and the ocean. The fertile soil and mild climate also make […]
A natural lookout affording a view over Santa Cruz, it hosts three chapels, with the highlight being the Nossa Sr.ª da Ajuda Chapel (sixteenth century). Resembling a miniature castle, this chapel is one of the best illustrations of the “fortified religious architecture” of the Azores. The pilgrims’ house, which hosts […]
A 194-metre wide and 40-metre high volcanic cave, it features stalactites and a sulphurous, cold water lake, 130 metres in diameter. The first explorations of the cave took place during the nineteenth century, with the participation of international researchers such as Prince Albert I of Monaco in 1879, who was one […]
A spa complex from the nineteenth century, it is located by the sea, and its warm, sulphur water (between 36C and 40C) has been used since 1750 for the treatment of rheumatism and skin diseases. This area is also visited by many people because of its tidal pools.