Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico – Pico Island

The Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico, located on Pico Island, in the Azores archipelago, has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. This was an extremely important achievement for the region, covering a total area of 987 ha and a buffer zone of 1,924 ha.

The territory partially covers the North and South coasts, as well as the West coast of Pico Island, with two historical sites as reference points: Lajido da Criação Velha and Lajido de Santa Luzia. These locations are rich in natural beauty and stunning landscapes, featuring traditional architecture linked to vineyard culture, all cultivated in black lava fields.

Património da Vinha
Fotografia de António Faria

In this area, you can observe several parallel and perpendicular walls to the coast, stretching inland, designed to protect the vines from wind and seawater. Additionally, the region boasts a diverse fauna and flora, with many endemic, rare species and communities, classified as permanent protection areas.

When visiting Pico Island, be sure to explore the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico, a must-see location. It’s worth the visit!

History of the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico

The emergence of the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico dates back to the arrival of the first settlers on Pico Island and in the Azores around 1460. With its volcanic origin, the soil wasn’t suitable for cereal cultivation, but it was ideal for wine production, thanks to the favorable microclimate and the characteristics of the volcanic rocks.

The peak of wine production was reached in the 19th century, characterized by a patchwork of small fields, buildings, and estates. The wine was exported from the port of Horta, on the neighboring island of Faial, to countries such as Germany, Brazil, the West Indies, England, Russia, and others. Around 12,000 to 15,000 barrels were produced.

However, this great success turned into a major problem. Two pests, known as Powdery Mildew and Phylloxera, devastated the vineyards, reducing production to just 100 barrels. As a result, many rural workers emigrated, and vineyard areas were abandoned.

In 1951, the Pico Wine Cooperative was established to help save and revitalize wine production in the region. In 1982, the Wine Museum and the Harvest Festival were created, the latter taking place every September to revive the sociocultural aspects related to wine production.

In 1986, legislation ensured the protection of the traditional architecture inherited from the wine cellar clusters. In 2004, UNESCO classified the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico as a World Heritage Site, making it a region of immense historical and cultural value in the Azores, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Visiting and Exploring

To explore the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico, it’s essential to visit the Interpretation Center, located in Lajido de Santa Luzia, an area designated as the Protected Landscape of the Vineyard Culture and a starting point for understanding the entire region.

Interpretation Center for the Vineyard Culture Landscape on Pico Island

You can watch a documentary about the Cultural Landscape of the Vineyard of Pico and obtain information about this World Heritage Site. There are also guided tours to the vine and fig tree “currais” (enclosures), the traditional interiors of a still-operating warehouse and alembic, and a route through the Lajido nucleus to understand the connection between the building and the vineyard and fig tree culture.

During the tour, you can also visit the lava fields, known as “lajidos,” where lava once flowed, in a landscape filled with beauty and endemic flora species unique to Pico Island. Finally, a variety of wines can be tasted and purchased.

Contact Information

Address: Lajido de Santa Luzia, 9940-108 S. Roque do Pico
Phone: (+351) 965 896 313
Email: pnpico.culturadavinha@azores.gov.pt

Opening Hours

From November 1 to March 31
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Closed on Mondays | January 1st | Carnival Tuesday | Easter Sunday | December 25th

From April 1 to October 31
Every day: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed on Easter Sunday

Guided Tours

Available by prior appointment
Tour duration: 30 to 45 minutes
Number of people per tour: 4 – 20

Prices

Children (0 – 6 years) – must be accompanied by an adult: Free
Junior (7 – 14 years): €1.00
Adult (15 – 64 years): €3.00 (Includes a complimentary tasting of a fortified wine – only for those over 18)
Senior (+ 65 years): €2.00 (Includes a complimentary tasting of a fortified wine)
Family (2 adults and children up to 14 years): €6.00 (Includes a complimentary tasting of two fortified wines)
Residents of the Autonomous Region of the Azores (RAA): Free, upon presentation of Citizen Card

Location on the Map

Video

As a suggestion, don’t forget to take a bottle of wine as a souvenir!