Faial

Dramatic "new land" built by a volcano and an internationally known port

   Photos by Jack Dodge  

The port at Horta on has been busy since the 15th century when the Flemish came to what is now Faial. It is a famous spot for sailors around the world.

In late 1957, earthquakes began near Capelinhos rocks as an underwater volcano erupted, making the sea boil and eventually adding 2 km. of land to west end of the island, destroying 300 homes and causing the rehousing of almost 2,000 people. When it was done, the old lighthouse, center,  was partially filled with hardened lava and was too far from the shore to be effective. A new lighthouse was built down the beach.

The barren "new land" formed by the volcano provides some dramatic vistas.

Red tiled roofs are seen on houses and other buildings on all the islands.

On to churches, tiles and the ship

Yachts from around the world can be found in Horta's harbor.

Horta at dusk as we set sail for Ponta Delgado, Sao Miguel, and home.