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ItalianoThe Graciosa Island is located north of the five islands that form the central group of the Azores archipelago, classified by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.
Many refer to it as the White Island, due to its geomorphological characteristics and elements of its formation.
Historians believe that the first contact between Portuguese navigators and Graciosa Island occurred in the early 15th century. The first group of settlers arrived on the island in the mid-1450s and initially settled in the Carapacho area, at the southwestern tip of the island.
Fotografia de Paulo Branco
However, the areas close to the sea were not very fertile for cultivation, leading many settlers to move inland to practice agriculture.
Over the years, the main inhabited area of Graciosa Island shifted to the northern zone due to easier access to the sea, particularly at the Barra and Santa Cruz coves, facilitating the loading and unloading of goods and the movement of the region’s economy.
Today, Graciosa Island is one of the most sought-after places for diving and fishing, thanks to its strong connection to the sea. The bays of Santa Cruz, Folga, and Praia are ideal spots for activities such as windsurfing, rowing, or sailing.
For those who enjoy swimming, Carapacho, Praia, Barro Vermelho, and Calheta are essential places to visit.
Fotografia de Paulo Branco
One of the main highlights of Graciosa Island is the Carapacho thermal baths (see below), which feature thermal waters with an average temperature of 40ºC, providing relaxation and well-being, as well as therapeutic and medicinal benefits.
For hiking enthusiasts, Graciosa Island offers several trails around the Caldeira, with breathtaking landscapes that bring a sense of peace and tranquility, filled with beauty on all sides.
Finally, for history buffs and lovers of natural phenomena, a visit to the Furna do Enxofre (see below) is a must, as it provides insight into the region’s volcanism while exploring the volcanic cavities of the island. It’s a unique and unmissable experience.
Check out some of the main points of interest to visit on Graciosa Island:
Santa Cruz da Graciosa
Photo by Angrense
Located in the northeast of Graciosa Island and belonging to a former volcanic territory, Santa Cruz da Graciosa is the largest municipality of this beautiful Azorean island, housing the highest number of inhabitants.
What stands out most in this locality is its architecture, with beautiful buildings and iron balconies. The ideal way to visit Santa Cruz da Graciosa is on foot, as the main attractions are located around the central square, known as Rossio.
Highlights include the Churches of Misericórdia and Santa Cruz, dating from the 16th and 18th centuries, respectively, as well as the Ethnographic Museum of Graciosa, located on Rua das Flores.
Parish of São Mateus (Praia)
Fotografia de João Leandro
This parish belongs to the municipality of Santa Cruz da Graciosa, São Mateus, simply known as Praia, covers only 12.56 km² and has a small population.
It is located at the southeastern tip of Graciosa Island, along the valley that separates the Caldeira from the rest of the island. The village of Praia, which was once the seat of the municipality, and the commercial port, known as Porto da Praia, are located here.
If you visit the village, you will notice the Ilhéu da Praia, a natural reserve and special protection area due to the seabirds that inhabit it. This parish is home to the Caldeira da Graciosa and also the Furna do Enxofre, major tourist attractions of Graciosa Island.
Fotografia de João Leandro
Furna do Enxofre
Developed underground within the Caldeira da Graciosa, the Furna do Enxofre is an impressive volcanic cavity with a perfectly vaulted ceiling, measuring 194 meters in length and 40 meters in height at its center.
Its origin is linked to the overflow of a lava lake within the caldera. The site features a Visitor Center that provides extensive information about this geosite in the Azores, one of the most significant in terms of richness and scientific, educational, and tourist value.
Don’t miss the chance to go inside the Earth and explore the depths of a volcano.
Useful Information: Hours, Prices, and Contacts
Ethnographic Museum of Graciosa
Photo by Rádio Graciosa
Established in 1977 and officially inaugurated on December 6, 1983, the Ethnographic Museum of Graciosa, popularly known as the Museum of Graciosa, is of great importance to Graciosa Island and the Azores archipelago, with the primary goal of valuing and protecting Azorean cultural heritage.
The museum offers visits to a permanent exhibition as well as temporary exhibitions on various themes. Its activities are essential for promoting and conducting socio-cultural activities in the region.
Operating Hours
Summer (April 1 to September 30): Tuesday to Sunday and holidays from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Winter (October 1 to March 31): Tuesday to Sunday and holidays from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Closed on Mondays
Price
Standard ticket €1.00;
Seniors €0.50;
Students €0.40;
Address and Contacts
Largo Conde de Simas, 17
9880-345 Santa Cruz
Graciosa – Azores
Phone: (+351) 295 712 429
Email: museu.graciosa.info@azores.gov.pt
See also: Museums in the Azores
Termas do Carapacho
Fotografia de Márcia Melo
Located in the parish of Luz, at the southwestern tip of Graciosa Island, the Termas do Carapacho is a famous thermal resort since the 17th century, believed to have miraculous waters.
The waters can reach temperatures of up to 40ºC and contain sulfur, chloride, and sodium.
Photo by 
