Destination Weddings in Terceira

This island is probably the most advanced of all the Azores Islands because of its updated amenities and advanced communications. This can be attributed to the American Lajes Airfield, an active military base on the northeast coast. The capital, Angra do Heroísmo, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Historically, this port town has been significant for trading between the Americas, Europe and Africa by boat.

The island, with a population of 56,000, is 29 kilometres long and 17.5 kilometres wide. Some of the architectural structures have suffered during the last century from the earthquake in 1980, a devastating fire three years later. The homes and the churches reflect the wealth that was acquired during the 17th Century when the Spanish, loaded with gold and treasures, selected this port as a stopover between Spain and the Americas.

The island is composed of forested farmland with a hint of its volcanic origin. At the Algar do Carvão the dramatic hole covered in moss and a large subterranean cave can be seen. To the west is another attraction named the Furnas do Enxofre, which presents steaming geysers and colorful designs. The Forte de São João Baptista, built in the early 17th Century under the direction of the Spanish, overlooks the harbor. It now offers a comfortable Pousada on its property. The 15th Century Convento de São Francisco is home to the local museum. This island is famous for its unique form of bull-running: A bull is let loose in the streets but kept leashed by a rope that is held by teams of men whose main hope is to keep hold of the bull as it runs off.

The island of Terceira, although historical significant, is also surprisingly modern. Couples who elect to marry here will find that they can enjoy he best of both Portuguese worlds: the old and the new.