What to visit in the city of Angra do Heroísmo

As Angra do Heroísmo was the first city of the Azores, it has an enormous historical and cultural importance. It has some of the greatest treasures of the baroque period, being declared in 1983, by UNESCO, as world heritage.

Alto da Memória Obelisk

Monument built in 1856 in honor of D. Pedro IV, after the Portuguese civil war of 1832-1834. It offers an excellent panoramic view of Angra do Heroísmo and has enormous historical value.

Palácio dos Capitães-Generais

Previously called Jesuit College, this is a building with more than four centuries of history, having been inhabited by religious institutions and kings. It was also the headquarters of the first unified government of the archipelago. Currently, it is the headquarters of the Presidency of the Regional Government, and it is possible to take a museum tour through the building.

Museum of Angra do Heroísmo

This museum is housed in the old São Francisco Convent, which has been restored and adapted to the present day. Today, as a museum, it exhibits pieces of military history and transport from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as paintings, ceramics and furniture. All of this is representative of Terceira’s culture.

Misericórdia Church

Here, in 1492, the first hospital of the Azores was founded, and today it has an exceptional collection of paintings and sculptures open to visitors.

São Gonçalo Church

The first convent in Angra do Heroísmo was founded here in the middle of the 16th century, and this is the largest conventual complex in the city. It has a valuable interior, with an altar in gilded woodcarving, tiles, 18th century paintings and the crucified Christ on a silver cross.

São Sebastião Church

Built during the first settlements, this presents a Gothic architectural style exterior, with an interior characterized by the Manueline architectural style. It also highlights its front portal, arched, as well as its vaulted chapel. This building adds to the historical value of the city.

Castle of São João Baptista

Ordered to be built by Filipe I of Portugal, II of Spain, this is one of the most imposing Portuguese fortresses. It has a system of moats, a portico and a bridge of arches, as well as the Church of São João Baptista. It is also possible, within its Praça de Armas, to visit the Governors Palace and the Chapel of Santa Catarina.

Monte Brasil Nature Reserve

This ancient volcano originating from the ocean is the best preserved in the Azores. It is surrounded by the walls of the São João Baptista fortress, and has several viewpoints, including the Ponta do Monte Brasil lighthouse, the Pico das Cruzinhas viewpoint, and the Pico do Facho viewpoint, from which breathtaking views of the city of Angra do Heroísmo can be obtained.