The Azores islands have curious names that often raise questions. So here we explain where the names of the Azores islands come from, one by one. But first, let’s start with the name of the archipelago.
Where the name Azores comes from
There are several theories. However, the most accepted one goes back to the sailors who discovered the islands. They saw many birds and thought they were goshawks, “açores” in Portuguese.
In fact, both kites and goshawks lived on the islands. Later, the historian Gaspar Frutuoso explained the mix-up in his book “Saudades da Terra”. In other words, the sailors probably confused the two birds.
Luckily for us! After all, “Azores” sounds much better than “Archipelago of the Kites”.
Eastern group
São Miguel
São Miguel was probably discovered between 1426 and 1439. However, settlement only began in 1444, on 29 September, the day of the Archangel Saint Michael. In addition, Prince Pedro, regent of the kingdom, was very devoted to this saint. So the island took his name.
Santa Maria
Santa Maria is the oldest island in the archipelago. Some say its name comes from the day the first sailors landed. That was 15 August, the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, “Santa Maria” in Portuguese.
Central group
Terceira
Many believe the name comes from it being the third island discovered. “Terceira” means “third” in Portuguese. It was once called Jesus Christ Island and Brazil Island. However, Terceira is the name that stuck.
Graciosa
Seen from the sea, the island looked graceful to the sailors. So its beauty and elegance gave it its name, “Graciosa”.
Pico
Anyone who has visited this island understands the name straight away. After all, Pico mountain dominates the landscape. It is one of the largest volcanoes in the Atlantic and ends in a cone-shaped peak, “pico” in Portuguese.
Faial
Faial was probably discovered in 1427, and settlement began in 1432. The name is said to come from the many faia trees (Myrica faya) that covered the island.
São Jorge
There are several theories. For example, the long, narrow shape of the island looks like the sword of Saint George. In addition, many people think it looks like a dragon. In religious art, Saint George defeats a dragon with his sword.
Western group
Flores
Here, the explanation is simple. The island owes its name to its huge variety of flowers, “flores” in Portuguese. As a result, it has a vibrant palette of colours.
Corvo
Corvo was discovered in 1452 and settled in 1548. Its name comes from the cormorants, “corvos-marinhos”, that lived there. So these birds ended up naming the smallest island in the Azores.
Want more curiosities about the Azores? Also see what to visit in the Azores and the best pastries in São Miguel.
Where to stay in São Miguel
We have houses and apartments in Ponta Delgada, in the centre and close to the sea, and in Ribeira Grande, with room for families and groups. So see the houses and prices and book direct with us.