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The Azores (Açores), Portugal
March 2001

Monte Brasil, Island of Terceira

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Scenic Overlook at Monte Brasil Monte Brasil is an odd appendage that hangs into the ocean on Terceira's south central coast. It forms a bay and a natural harbor by its teardrop shape. Additionally it deflects prevailing winds that come from the west and the southwest. Its heights allowed defensive positions to protect the land below from invasion by foreign enemies. These factors provided optimal settlement opportunities and it's no surprise that Angra do Heroísmo formed here early in the history of Azores settlement. This photograph comes from one of Monte Brasil's scenic overlooks, with Angra do Heroísmo appearing in the background. Want to borrow this image for your website or blog? Please read Terms & Conditions The Caldera of Monte Brasil As is common in the Azores, Monte Brasil was born of fire when a volcano spewed magma and created a mound that eventually grew out of the sea and adhered to Terceira, only to collapse on itself. From a distance this mountain looks as if it is a solid mound, but once over the summit it is obviously a hollow bowl, the caldera of an extinct volcano. Today this is a nature preserve and a protected place for increasingly threatened native plant species. Want to borrow this image for your website or blog? Please read Terms & Conditions World War 2 Anti-Aircraft Position Monte Brasil's strategic military position did not end with the advent of steamships. The Azores remained an important resting, refueling and reconnoitering point for ships, airplanes and troops. This World War II antiaircraft battery was placed atop the mountain to ward off possible enemy bombardment of the town below. Afterward the War, the United States Air Force continued to maintain a localized presence, and fighter jets could been seen and heard screaming across the island of Terceira during our visit. More Options Previous Travel Adventure: Terceira - Angra do Heroísmo Harbor Next Travel Adventure: Terceira - Angra do Heroísmo Azores Menu