Fajã de Santo Cristo Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > Calheta > Ribeira Seca > Fajã de Santo Cristo

Location

The Lagoa da Fajã de Santo Cristo is situated within one of the most distinctive geographical formations on the island of São Jorge, in the Azores. Integrated into the area of Fajã de Santo Cristo, in the municipality of Calheta and the locality of Ribeira Seca, this lagoon lies on a coastal platform of peculiar genesis. Its surroundings are marked by the imposing cliff that delimits it, creating a dramatic and unique scenery where the green of the mountain meets the vast blue of the Atlantic. It is a place of great natural beauty and unmistakable landscape.

The Formation of the Fajã

The existence of Lagoa da Fajã de Santo Cristo is intrinsically linked to the complex geological history of São Jorge island. This fajã, and consequently the lagoon that complements it, was born from a continuous process of collapse of the coastal mountains. Natural phenomena such as volcanism, seismic movements, and constant marine abrasion precipitated large volumes of rocky material from higher elevations, which deposited at the base of the cliff, forming this natural platform near the sea.

A Vibrant Ecosystem

Since 1984, the area surrounding Lagoa da Fajã de Santo Cristo has been recognized as a natural reserve, a status that reflects its high ecological value. This status aims to protect a remarkable ecosystem, which hosts a population of clams of the species Ruditapes decussatus, with particular importance for the region. Furthermore, the lagoon is a privileged observation point for various bird species, both resident and migratory. The nesting of seabirds such as the cory's shearwater, the roseate tern, and the common tern makes this place of particular interest for avifauna. The local flora is equally rich, with the presence of endemic Azorean species, such as heather, and native species, such as Azorean laurel, which thrive in habitats of pebbles, marine cliffs, and rocks.

The Waters of the Lagoon

Lagoa da Fajã de Santo Cristo is distinguished by being a brackish water lagoon, a type of aquatic environment uncommon in the Azores. Its waters, with a relatively higher temperature than the ocean due to its distance, are influenced by the tides, which contribute to their oxygenation and vitality. Historically, the channel connecting it to the sea underwent a process of silting, but it was restored in recent years, allowing the connection with the ocean again. Inside the lagoon, there is also a simple pier, built to facilitate the docking of small vessels.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt