Furnas Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > Povoação > Furnas

Location

Furnas Lagoon is located in the heart of São Miguel island, in the Azores, near the town of Furnas, in the municipality of Povoação. Situated in a volcanic caldera at approximately 600 meters of altitude, the lagoon is part of a vast natural area known as Grena Trails, a name that reflects its integration into an environment suitable for walks and pedestrian exploration. The lagoon's surroundings are characterized by abundant and exuberant vegetation, where the intense green of the landscape meets the natural manifestations of the region's volcanic activity.

The Geothermal Essence

The shores of Furnas Lagoon are a privileged place to witness the island's geothermal dynamics. Here, it is possible to observe closely volcanic phenomena, such as fumaroles and boiling water calderas, emanating from the ground. This natural spectacle demonstrates the energy residing within the earth. It is precisely in this soil, heated by natural forces, that one of the most unique delicacies of local gastronomy is prepared: the famous cozido (stew), cooked in buried pots, taking advantage of the volcanic heat for the slow cooking of the ingredients.

A Historical Legacy

On the lake's shore stands the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, a building with Neo-Gothic architecture that stands out in the landscape. Inaugurated on August 15, 1886, this chapel was commissioned as a mausoleum by José do Canto, a prominent historical figure in the Azores. Its presence adds a touch of uniqueness and a historical dimension to this natural landscape, inviting contemplation of the built heritage amidst nature.

Understanding to Protect

The Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre (CMIF), located on the lagoon's south bank, plays a fundamental role in understanding and conserving this ecosystem. This space was designed with the objective of promoting the ecological recovery of the lagoon and the continuous improvement of its water quality. The building, designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus, is notable for how it blends into the surrounding landscape, using local basalt, thus materializing a deep connection between human construction and the surrounding natural environment.

Classified Natural Richness

Furnas Lagoon is an ecosystem of great value, recognized and protected internationally. It has been classified as a Ramsar Site since 2008, under the Convention on Wetlands, and is part of a Special Protection Area (SPA) of the Natura 2000 Network. These classifications underscore the importance of its biodiversity, which includes rich native vegetation, with projects for the reintroduction of rare species such as the pau-branco (white wood tree), and the presence of various birds, such as the grey heron. The area surrounding the lagoon offers a tranquil environment and inviting green spaces, providing direct contact with nature and allowing for moments of leisure.

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