Negrito Bathing Area

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > São Mateus da Calheta > Praia fluvial do Negrito

Location

The Negrito Bathing Area is located on the coast of São Mateus da Calheta, a parish in the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, on the stunning Terceira Island, in the Azores. This location is situated within a low-lying coastal area, framed by the vast seascape of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Natural Setting

This bathing area is distinguished by its unique bay, whose bottom is predominantly flat and composed of extensive basalt slabs. On the western side of the bay, freshwater springs emerge, notably cold, flowing from rainwater infiltration on the island. The eastern side of the bay reveals a stretch of black sand, resulting from the erosion of volcanic scoria by the sea.

A Historical Past

Negrito boasts a rich history, marked by the presence of the Negrito Fort, erected in 1581. This defensive structure played a crucial role in protecting Terceira Island, both against the threat of Spanish invasion during the 1580 succession crisis and from constant attacks by pirates and privateers. Later, the fort also served as a refuge for whaling boat crews, and in the early 20th century, the bay was a significant point for whaling activity, of which remnants of equipment can still be found. Today, the fort is an important heritage site under the purview of the Angra do Heroísmo City Council.

The Coastline and Access Points

The Negrito coastline is characterized by the presence of rocky outcrops and vast basaltic rock formations that dot the coast. This maritime environment, at times challenging, was the scene of significant events, such as the shipwreck of the British schooner Clio, which occurred in 1865. Recently, the area underwent interventions that equipped it with bathing platforms, designed to harmonize sea access with the natural environment and the historical heritage of the site.

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