Buy a house to immigrate to Portugal and experience life in Portugal: The Azores, located in the central North Atlantic, are approximately 1,600 kilometers from the European continent, covering an area of about 2,335 square kilometers, with a population of around 250,000. The archipelago consists of nine islands, divided into eastern, central, and western groups, and is referred to as Portugal's "Nine Daughters of the Atlantic."
According to historical records, the Azores were first discovered by Portuguese navigators in 1427 and gradually became an important supply station on Atlantic shipping routes. Pico Island is the second largest island in the Azores, with Mount Pico reaching an elevation of 2,351 meters, making it the highest peak in Portugal. Notably, the vineyard area features a network of low black basalt stone walls, which protect the vines from the sea winds and saltwater erosion. The Cultural Landscape of the Vineyards of Pico Island, covering 987 hectares, was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004.
What kind of fine wine can be produced from grapes grown on basalt? Remarkably, such conditions can yield such sweet wines, which in the past were served directly on the tables of the Russian Tsars. Grape cultivation on Pico Island began in the late 15th century, shortly after the island was settled. The volcanic soil is rich in nutrients, and the dry, warm microclimate on the slopes, along with the hard black stone walls that block wind and heat from the sun, provides an excellent environment for the maturation of Verdelho grapes. The wine was later exported to many countries in Europe and America, even making its way to the tables of the Russian court. The vineyards adorn the island's landscape, producing fresh, aromatic wines that are dry and smooth, making them ideal for pairing with seafood or fish. On festive occasions, a fragrant wine (vinho de cheiro) is often found on the dining table.
Pico Island is the second largest island in the Azores, with Mount Pico reaching an elevation of 2,351 meters, making it the highest peak in Portugal. The Cultural Landscape of the Vineyards of Pico Island, along with the volcanic natural landscape and the traditional cultivation practices passed down through generations, was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. The old Lajido da Criação Velha and Lajido de Santa Luzia are prime examples of this land division art and are highly regarded.
Vineyards planted on volcanic lava are surrounded by dry stone walls, known as "currais," which protect the vineyards from sea winds while allowing essential sunlight to reach the grapes. This natural habitat is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, with the lush laurel forests unique to the Macaronesia region being particularly prominent.