Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > Angra do Heroísmo > Sé

Location

The Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas is located in the city of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island, and is part of the parish of Sé. It is situated at the top of Pico das Cruzinhas, one of the peaks that make up the imposing Monte Brasil, an area of great scenic and historical value. This site is integrated into the Monte Brasil Recreational Forest Reserve, offering a unique natural setting, even close to the historic center of the city.

Scenic Panoramas

From this viewpoint, the gaze encompasses a vast landscape stretching across the entire south coast of Terceira Island. It is possible to observe the Ilhéus das Cabras, the parishes of Porto Judeu, Ribeirinha, and São Mateus da Calheta, as well as the surrounding mountains, such as Ribeirinha, Morião, and Santa Bárbara. The privileged view also includes the bays of Angra do Heroísmo, Fanal, and Villa Maria, and the ports of Pipas, the Marina of Angra do Heroísmo, and the Port of São Mateus da Calheta. On clear days, the horizon line also reveals the silhouettes of the islands of São Jorge and Pico.

Historical Vestiges

Pico das Cruzinhas, formerly known as Pico das Cruzes, is the lowest of the three peaks of Monte Brasil, with an altitude of 168 meters. Its name comes from the presence of three crosses that, in 1642, were located at its summit, symbolizing faith. This place also holds a darker history, as it was here that, after the conquest of 1583, the gallows of the old castle were erected, used for executions. In memory of the V Centenary of the Discovery of the Azores, a concrete monument, topped with the Cross of Christ, was erected in the same place where the gallows once stood.

In addition to this symbolic marker, the viewpoint also houses old anti-aircraft artillery pieces, remnants from World War II, and a powder magazine or guard posts from the 17th century, testaments to the strategic and defensive importance of this point over the centuries.

Leisure Areas

The Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas is not just a viewing point, but also an area designed for visitors' enjoyment and conviviality. There is a picnic area with outdoor barbecue facilities, inviting moments of leisure in contact with nature. There is also an amphitheater and aviaries for birds and other animals, elements that enrich the experience and make the space more appealing for a long and relaxing stroll.

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