A Brief History of The Azores

So you’ve set your sights on the Azores. We don’t blame you. These stunning islands are not only beautiful, full of friendly people and amazing food, but they also have a rich history that’s about as intriguing as their dramatic landscapes. So you can be full of all the facts before your Azores package holiday, let’s take a fun trip through the Azores’ past and see how this amazing archipelago came to be the gem it is today.

The start of the Azores’ history begins in 15th century. You history buffs out there will likely know how much this century was buzzing with exploration – especially in Europe. The Azores, a group of nine islands smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, were first spotted by Portuguese explorers around 1432. The exact details of who discovered them and when are a big murky, but it’s generally agreed that the islands were stumbled upon during the Age of Discovery.

Legend has it that the islands were named after a type of hawk called the “azor” in Portuguese, although some say it might have been a mix-up or a twist of fate. Either way, by the 15th and 16th centuries, the Azores were being added to the worldwide map.

Fast forward to the late 15th and early 16th centuries, and the Azores were beginning to see some serious action. The Portuguese started settling the islands, bringing with them agriculture and livestock. These early settlers were known for being pretty resilient, turning the rugged volcanic land into fertile ground for crops like wheat and potatoes.

One fun fact to tell your adventure buddies on your Azores holiday: the settlers had to deal with frequent pirate attacks and occasional volcanic eruptions, which kept life interesting to say the least! There’s nothing like trying to grow potatoes around frequent lava rivers.

By the 17th and 18th centuries, the Azores were becoming a crucial stopover point for explorers and traders crossing the Atlantic. The islands' strategic location made them a prime pitstop for ships making the long journey between Europe and the Americas. They became a hub for international trade, and their ports were bustling with activity. The islands also had a bit of a tumultuous time with political and social changes. They were involved in some conflicts, including the Portuguese Civil War, which had its share of impact on local life.

As we moved into the 19th and 20th centuries, the Azores continued to evolve. They went through phases of economic shifts, with agriculture and whaling playing significant roles. In more recent decades, tourism has become a major part of the Azores’ economy, bringing new life and opportunities to the islands.

Today, the Azores is the perfect blend of old and new. The islands are still best known for their stunning landscapes including breathtaking crater lakes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines. Of course, it’s still a hotspot for eco-tourism with Azores package holidays attracting travellers who love nature and adventure.

When you visit, it’s clear the people of the Azores are incredibly proud of their heritage, and they continue to work hard to preserve their culture and traditions. From the lively festivals to the warm hospitality, you’ll feel the heartbeat of the islands in every corner.

Wanting to learn more? We recommend visiting the Azores for yourself! Book your own Azores package holiday today and discover or pre-built offers here. Alternatively, create your own bespoke Azores holiday using our package builder. The team at Azores Holidays are on hand to help whenever you need us; just email us at info@azoresholidays.com and let us organise your Azores hotel, flights, tours and more.