Azoren

Azoren, known in Portuguese as Açores, is an autonomous region of Portugal comprising nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic. The archipelago lies about 1,500 kilometers west of the mainland and is divided into three groups: the Eastern (Santa Maria and São Miguel), Central (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial), and Western (Flores and Corvo). The capital and largest city is Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel.

The islands are of volcanic origin, with rugged coastlines, caldera lakes, and geothermal areas. Notable sights include Sete Cidades and Furnas on São Miguel. The climate is oceanic, mild, and humid, supporting green pastures, tea plantations on São Miguel, and greenhouse pineapples. The surrounding seas are known for cetacean populations and rich marine life.

Discovered and settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century, the Azores became an autonomous region of Portugal after the late 20th-century constitutional changes. The regional government is based in Ponta Delgada, while coordination with the national government occurs in Lisbon. The official language is Portuguese and the currency is the euro.

Economy centers on services, agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Dairy farming is important; the production of pineapples in greenhouses and locally produced cheese are notable. Inter-island transport relies on air and ferry services; João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada is the main gateway for international and intercontinental travel.