Category: Civil Architecture > Memorial
District: Açores > Ponta Delgada > Ponta Delgada > Santa Clara
The Autonomy Monument is located in one of Ponta Delgada's main roundabouts, situated in the Santa Clara area. Its strategic placement, at the confluence of important city avenues such as Avenida Príncipe do Mónaco, makes it a visible and easily accessible landmark for those exploring the locality.
This monument, inaugurated on September 8, 1992, marks a crucial moment in the history of the Azores. Its creation celebrates the archipelago's status of constitutional autonomy, a fundamental right enshrined in the Portuguese Constitution on April 2, 1976. It is a recognition of the Azorean journey and identity, symbolizing the region's capacity to govern its own destiny.
The monument's inauguration date refers to another event of great significance: on September 8, 1976, the I Regional Government of the Azores took office. This fact marked the beginning of a new era of self-governance for the archipelago, with the swearing-in of the first regional executive, presided over by Dr. João Bosco Mota Amaral.
More than a structure, the Autonomy Monument represents a strong symbol of the Azores' path to self-determination. Erected in the heart of Ponta Delgada, it serves as a permanent reminder of the autonomy achieved and the decision-making capacity of its population. For those visiting the city, it is an important piece for understanding the recent history and the uniqueness of Azorean identity in the national context.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.737203933333, -25.682482283333
Coordinates DMS: 37°44'13.9"N 25°40'56.9"W