About Horta

Horta is a town and a municipality in the Azores Islands, Portugal. The town of Horta is located on the island of Faial and has a population of about 11,000 people. The municipality of Horta includes the island of Faial and the neighboring islands of Pico, Sao Jorge, and Graciosa. Horta is the capital of the Azores and the largest city in the archipelago. The town of Horta is situated on a sheltered harbor on the north coast of Faial. The harbor is surrounded by cliffs and is one of the best natural harbours in the Azores. Horta is a busy port and is the main base for the Azorean fishing fleet. Horta is also a popular stopover for yachts and other pleasure boats sailing between Europe and the New World. The town of Horta has a long history. It was first settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century and was an important base for the Portuguese voyages of exploration in the Atlantic Ocean. Horta was also an important stopover for the whaling ships that sailed from Europe to the Arctic in the 18th and 19th centuries. The town of Horta has a mild climate and is known for its flowers and gardens. Horta is also a center for arts and crafts. The town has several museums, including the Azores Maritime Museum and the Carlos Machado Museum. Horta is the starting point for many excursions to the other islands of the Azores. Ferries depart regularly from Horta to the islands of Pico, Sao Jorge, and Graciosa. Horta is also a gateway to the island of Santa Maria, which is the southernmost island of the Azores.