Graciosa Island Map

Description:
This map shows towns, villages, main roads, secondary roads, points of interest, tourist attractions, and sightseeings on Graciosa Island.

About Graciosa Island

Graciosa, also known as "White Island," is one of the nine islands in the Azores archipelago, Portugal. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, it is part of the Central Group and has an area of 60.66 square kilometers (23.42 square miles). The island's highest point is Pico Timão, reaching 398 meters (1,306 feet) above sea level.

The island's main town is Santa Cruz da Graciosa, which serves as the administrative center. The municipality includes four civil parishes: Santa Cruz da Graciosa, São Mateus, Guadalupe, and Luz. The total population of the island is approximately 4,000 residents, making it one of the least populated islands in the Azores.

One of the most significant attractions is the Furna do Enxofre, a remarkable volcanic cave featuring a perfect dome-shaped roof and a sulfurous lake. This unique geological formation is accessible through a tower with a spiral staircase of 183 steps. The island is also home to the historic Lighthouse of Ponta da Barca, built in 1930, and several traditional windmills that represent the island's agricultural heritage. The Termas do Carapacho, thermal springs located in the southeastern part of the island, have been used for therapeutic purposes since the 18th century.

Graciosa's economy traditionally relies on agriculture, with vineyards and cattle farming being prominent activities. The island produces notable wines and is famous for its traditional queijo da Graciosa (Graciosa cheese). The island was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2007, recognizing its unique environmental characteristics and sustainable development practices.