Triad of Gastronomy, Nature and Culture

The second most populated island in the Azores, with 56,437 inhabitants (2011 data), Terceira Island has an area of around 401.9 km 2 . It is the most eastern island of the five that make up the Central Group of the Autonomous Region of the Azores. It was the third island found by Portuguese navigators, probably between the end of 1420 and the beginning of 1430, beginning with the designation Ilha de Jesus Cristo. Mindful of its historic past full of great achievements, Terceira currently remains a dynamic island within the archipelago, with the historic center of Angra do Heroísmo recognized, in 1983, as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The dominant green of the island's interior fades to its periphery, where centuries-old human occupation and the colorful houses of the localities dictate their rules. And where the lilac color of the building facades gains weight, especially in Angra do Heroísmo. You can enjoy boat trips to observe cetaceans and dolphins and incredible natural pools, among many other activities.

Terceira island breathes culture through every pore. There are several cultural institutions and associations, theater groups and temporary or permanent exhibition venues that contribute to the promotion of the island's culture. The festive island: more than a slogan or an epithet, it is an undeniable reality, which the hospitality of the people of Terceira is keen to preserve and value.

Terceira's gastronomy is famous for its rump, usually beef but also fish. In confectionery, the Dona Amélia cakes stand out, where sugar cane honey and cinnamon are associated with currants and citrons. The coscorões, the cornucopias (with egg jam filling) or the rice pudding round off the list of desserts.

For more information: Visit Azores