Furnas Valley
Região Autónoma dos Açores
Furnas Valley, located on São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago, is a remarkable natural feature shaped by volcanic activity. The valley is famous for its geothermal phenomena, including fumaroles, hot springs, and boiling calderas that create a distinctive landscape rich in macaronese vegetation. One of the valley's most unique cultural traditions is the preparation of "Cozido das Furnas," a traditional Portuguese stew cooked underground using volcanic heat. The valley also hosts the Lagoa das Furnas, a picturesque lake surrounded by abundant greenery and volcanic manifestations. Notably, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, built as a mausoleum for José do Canto and inaugurated in 1886, stands on the lake's shore. The area features the Center for Monitoring and Research of Furnas (CMIF), an architectural landmark designed by Manuel Aires Mateus, which promotes ecological restoration and educates visitors on the valley's natural heritage. Furnas Valley's mild climate and lush environment make it an exceptional destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Furnas Valley is during spring and summer when the vegetation is lush and the weather is mild. Visitors are advised to book guided tours or visit the Center for Monitoring and Research of Furnas (CMIF) to gain deeper insights into the valley's ecology and geothermal activity. Purchasing tickets or booking tours in advance can help avoid crowds. There are discounts available for students and seniors at some attractions. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to uneven terrain and walking paths around the lake and geothermal sites.
Faits intéressants
- •Furnas Valley is famous for its geothermal cooking method where traditional Portuguese stew, "Cozido das Furnas," is cooked underground using volcanic heat.
- •The Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, located on the lake's shore, was originally intended as a mausoleum for José do Canto and was inaugurated in 1886.
- •The Center for Monitoring and Research of Furnas (CMIF), opened in 2011, won the International Stone Architecture Award in 2011 for its unique basalt stone design.
- •Furnas Valley is part of the geologically active Azores triple junction, where three tectonic plates meet, contributing to its volcanic activity.
Histoire
Furnas Valley's volcanic landscape has been shaped over thousands of years by geothermal activity characteristic of the Azores archipelago.
The valley and its lake formed through volcanic eruptions and subsequent geothermal phenomena such as fumaroles and boiling springs.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias was inaugurated in 1886 as a mausoleum for José do Canto, a notable figure in the region.
More recently, in 2011, the Center for Monitoring and Research of Furnas (CMIF) was established to support ecological recovery and environmental education in the valley, reflecting ongoing efforts to preserve and understand the unique natural environment of Furnas.
Guide du lieu
Lagoa das Furnas
A volcanic lake surrounded by lush macaronese vegetation and geothermal features such as fumaroles and hot springs. It is the site where traditional "Cozido das Furnas" is cooked underground using volcanic heat.
Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias1886
A distinctive chapel on the shores of Lagoa das Furnas, built as the mausoleum for José do Canto and inaugurated in 1886. It is one of the most curious architectural landmarks on São Miguel Island.
Center for Monitoring and Research of Furnas (CMIF)2011
An ecological and educational center inaugurated in 2011, designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus. The center promotes ecological restoration of the lake and surrounding valley and offers interactive exhibits about the valley's geology, flora, and fauna.
Contact
Téléphone: 302 030 350
