Angra do Heroismo

Igreja Da Misericordia

Angra do Heroismo or Bay of Heros is not the original name of the city but one given to the city later in honor of battles fought and won in a civil war.  In 1983, Angra was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  After being devastated by an earthquake they meticulously brought the city back to its original historic form.  Protecting the culture of this beautiful city earned them the UNESCO designation. 

 The beautiful whitewashed buildings and the volcanic rock sidewalks all with different patterns are stunning.

I am amazed at all the time and effort they put into those sidewalks - all by hand.

And in the middle of the city are these beautiful gardens.  The Azores were an important stop in the trade route from Europe to the Indies.  When ships would stop plants were gathered and planted in the garden. It is an amazing collection of plants from all over the world.  

Mark and Cecilie - Rally folks in their bright yellow shirts

There was a walking tour of the city starting at the top of the steps.  It ended up being a two hour walking tour which we were not quite up for after sitting on a boat for so long!

 The tour took us by the magnificent cathedrals.

 
 Our friends dropped out of the tour after a bit for lunch... but we kept going.

 So pretty - definitely my favorite island so far.  But I haven't seen them all so I will reserve judgement.