[house] Omega's Pico Web Page
http://www.pathcom.com/~omega/pico.html		 [house]
"The saddest thing is if at the end of your life you say 'I wish I did' or 'Why didn't I?' You have to go after it with full gusto in life, whatever it is, go after the stupidest whim, because you pass by once." - Gene Simmons
Last updated December 30th, 1999
[truckbar]
jump within Top Miscellaneous Graphics and Quotes Audio Clips Favourite Links this page
Below is a Favourite list that surfers to this web page in the Omega Universe have stated their much valued opinions on. (* are my favourites, (X) are new to the list, LU column are the values from the Last Update and TU column are the new values for This Update)
FAVOURITE TOPICS LU TU FAVOURITE TU LU
Favourite
Town
or
City
On
The
Island
Of
Pico		 3. 1. Madalena 31% 33%
1. 2. * Candelaria 19% 34%
X 3. (X) Terra Do Pao 13% X
2. 4. Prainha De Baixo 7% 33%
X 5. (X) Sao Mateus 6% X
X 6. (X) Santa Cruz, Ribeiras 6% X
X 7. (X) Piedade 6% X
X 8. (X) Lajes 6% X
X 9. (X) Bandeiras 6% X
Favourite
Site Of
Interest
On The
Island
Of
Pico		 1. 1. * Pico's Volcano 57% 100%
X 2. (X) Dolphins 8% X
X 3. (X) The Pool in Madalena 7% X
X 4. (X) The Furnas 7% X
X 5. (X) Family 7% X
X 6. (X) Amigos (friends) 7% X
X 7. (X) Island landscape 7% X
Favourite
Food
From
The Island
Of Pico		 2. 1. Lapas 50% 50%
1. 2. * Massa Sovada 29% 50%
X 3. (X) The Pork 7% X
X 4. (X) Bifes con Arroz 7% X
X 5. (X) Torresmos 7% X
Favourite
Festival
On
The
Island
Of Pico		 2. 1. Santa Maria in Madalena 43% 50%
1. 2. * Espirito Santo in Sao Mateus 29% 50%
X 3. (X) Festa da Lourdes in Lajes 7% X
X 4. (X) Espirito Santo in Candelaria 7% X
X 5. (X) Semana do Mar 7% X
X 6. (X) Cais Agosto 7% X
Favourite Month To
Spend On The
Island Of Pico		 2. 1. July 50% 50%
X 2. (X) August 42% X
1. 3. * September 8% 50%
(X) Favourite Season To Spend
On The Island Of Pico		 X 1. (X) * Fall 50% X
X 2. (X) May to October 50% X
(X) Favourite Swimming Area On The
Island Of Pico (suggested by MJCUNHA)		 X 1. (X) * The Rocks by the pool in Madalena 50% X
X 2. (X) The Pool in Madalena 50% X
(X) Favourite Water Sport Activity On The Island Of Pico (suggested by eagerruger **) X 1. (X) * Whale Watching ** 100% X
(X) Favourite Beverage On The Island Of Pico X 1. (X) * Anis 100% X
(X) Favourite Lodging On The Island Of Pico X 1. (X) * With family 100% X
E-Mail me your favourite for each of the above topics or use my Pico Survey form to have your opinions voiced with the other surfers of this web page. Let me know if you have any ideas for other favourite topics you would like to see in the survey
jump within Top Miscellaneous Graphics and Quotes Audio Clips Favourite Links this page
MISCELLANEOUS:
"trying to locate any members of the lawrence family my grandfather came from pico in late 1800s, to mendecino,ca j watson @qnet.com" Comments by j watson from mendecino, California, U.S.A.
"...My parents are both from Pico and i just returned from my 2nd trip there. I am 21 years old and went alone to visit family that i had not seen in 17 years. I was there 3 months and it was the most amazing experience. I have already started a savings account to go back next summer. Th people from Pico are incredibly nice and generous. I stayed mostly in Lajes but got around to the other parts of the island very often... sincerely, Lezette Bagaso (really Bagaco)." Comments by Lezette Bagaco from ???
"I was born on the Island of Pico in a hospital in Cais do Pico. I left Pico when I was six weeks old. I have a lot family still there. I have been back twice. The last time was 1984 when I was 15 years old. I was there for 3 months. It was the best time. I miss it so much. I loved to go fishing at the cais, going to Faial for the Week of the Sea and I love all the fiestas. My father lives in Santo Amaro, Pico. I tell him that I am coming every year. But the air fares for me and my family is so expensive from California. I can not wait to get there and show my kids where their mom is from." Comments by Adriana Melo-Molton J from San Diego, California, U.S.A.
"In your site, where's written "sevada", there should be "sovada". Thanks for the chance. Yours sincerely." Comments by Margarida Leitao from Portugal
Omega: Thanks for the correction. I have changed its spelling throughout the web page.
"Boas, o meu nome e Nelson e eu sou de Sao Roque, e tenho saudades e magua de nao ter fotos de la. Se me poder informare ao inviar algums fotos, gostaria de ver. O meu portugues e um pouco fraco,se nao percebeu,me digao... Obrigado!!!" Comments by Nelson from ???
Omega: The only pictures I could find are these two. At left you will find a thumbnail picture of the church of Sao Roque and at right is the fire house.
"I wonder if you can help or advise us? We are a British couple, currently living and working in Lisbon, and we will visit Pico and Sao Miguel for a holiday in September (1999). Our query is, that we would like to get married while we are there! We have checked all the legal issues with the British Consulate in Lisbon, but now we need to find a registry office (Conservatorio do Registo Civil?) in Pico or Sao Miguel. We only want a very quiet, civil ceremony, not a church wedding, as we have different religions. We've tried to contact the Conservatoria do Registo Civil da Madalena by fax, but haven't had any response. Do you know who we could contact? Any advice much appreciated." Comments by Neil and Jane from Lisbon, Portugal
Omega: I suggest that you try telephoning them directly. I have yet to ever get a fax through and answered so I gave up and now call directly for everything.
"hello i am from pico i born in faial and i move to pico the time i was 9 i live on the terra do poa i love pico alot" Comments by Maria from ???
"Hi just read your web page and really enjoyed your pictures of PICO, just recently my aunt told me that we may have family on your island. For the pas 7 years I have been trying to locate family in PORTUGAL, but with all my information about the trip ,ship, and dates I have hit a dead end. If anyone can help me PLEASE, it would make me so happy since someday I plan a trip to the AZORES. My grandfather's name was BOTELHO, MANUAL, he came to HAWAII on the ship S S HANSA, out of SAO MIGUEL, in the year 1882, he arrived here in SEPTEMBER 15 1882, in HONOLULU, HAWAII he was 9 years old. He was with his father MANUEL BOTELHO, mother ROSA JOAQUINA, sisters ROSA, AND JULIA BOTELHO. If you know anyone who can help me let me know, THANK YOU ...my address is eunike@gte.net..." Comments by Eunice from Hawaii, U.S.A.
Omega: If anyone out there can help Eunice with any information, please E-Mail me.
"Hey Omega!! My name is Anna Neves. I was originally born in San Jose, California and am first generation Azorean in the States. My parents migrated to California in 1967. I speak Portuguese fluently and have traveled to Pico every year for the past 3 years. And yes I will be there again this year. I leave the states in mid August and will return mid September. My favorite region of Pico is not even mentioned in your survey. It is Lajes. That is where all of my family is and where my roots began. I don't really have a favorite food because everything tastes great to me when I am there. The quality of meat, fish, vegetables, and especially the bread is much better there than it is here. My favorite attraction would have to be the beautiful and bountiful landscape of the island, which yes also includes the volcano of Pico. The old homes, the lava rock fences, and the old whaling factories catch my attention much more than anything else. My parents have a house in Ribeira do Meio which was badly destroyed in the earthquake last year. But God willing we will rebuild it soon. I would appreciate it if you could send me periodic updates of the weather, when the festas are and any other information that you might find interesting... Our islands really do not get enough recognition in this large country." Comments by Anna Neves from San Jose, California, U.S.A.
"I would like to see a picture of the church where my father was born. He helped plant the sycamore trees in front of the church of San Mateus. Can you help me. Thanks." Comments by Ellen from San Jose, California, U.S.A.
Omega: If anyone out there has a picture please E-Mail me it.
"...My wife, her brother and his wife and I are planning to go to Pico in October. How would you suggest we travel? My father-in-law was born in S. Roque. Do you have any suggestions for lodging in there?" Comments by David from ???
Omega: It is always nice to stay with family but there are hotels you can stay in and you can rent a car.
"My husband was born in Silveira, Pico. Left to come to Cal. in 1960. His father was Manuel Pereira Bettencourt, and mother was Ana Josepha Soares Bettencourt. We are planning a trip there in a year, and possibly moving there in 4-5 years, we have a son. We would like to find relatives, and get in touch with them. You can email me at KDBettin@aol.com Thanks" Comments by Kim Bettencourt from Washington, U.S.A.
"I went to live in Pico when I was about 13, I was there for 5 years. I lived in Manhenha, which is a very beautiful summer village. It was the most wonderful experience ever, to be able to experience my parents culture, see how things were done, matancas, festas, family/friend get together foqueiras de S Joas, ride horses as means of transportation, all of which unfortunately is starting to disappear, many of your page visitors seem to refer to the Islands as being unknown to the outside world, I think that is a good thing, unfortunately being known comes for example TV videos, cable, now people don't get together in the afternoon and be social with each other, play games, crochet, play ball, dance, cars all over, no more of seeing horses around, pollution, it is slowly changing and I don't think the people realize what they are losing, I know because I lived here and then went there, came back unfortunately, and have gone back almost every and love it but I do see the change, and change is good but hopefully it wont get to be too much, and become a USA, and lose the beauty of the place, if you were in San Migeul about 16 years ago and go there today what a difference Pta Delgada cars every where, hwys, its hard to just walk to the coast, take a look at Oahu Hawaii, that place was a quite island, now its almost like going to San Francisco. Any ways change is good, but not so much that the whole picture gets changed and the paradise is lost forever. Just my thoughts." Comments by Christina from U.S.A.
"Hi, my name is Sergio Serpa. I was born in Pico and now live in Boston, Massachusetts. I came to the U.S. when I was five, but I go back to Pico almost every year. I am from Prainha do Norte (de Baixo). I am related to the Bernardo and Serpa families. I anyone needs any information about these two last names, I would be pleased to help you..." Comments by Sergio Serpa from Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.
"O meu nome e Fernando Brum e sou natural da freguesia das Ribeiras, concelho das Lajes do Pico. Aos 12 anos imigrei para California, onde estou presentemente estou a cursar jornalismo e, simultaneamente, trabalho como redactor de um semanario em Castro Valley. Nao ha muito tempo pensei em redigir um trabalho sobre os "Picoense: no meio do mar e ciberespaco", naturalmente, que irei incluir este site nesse trabalho, o qual, em breve, sera publicado no jornal "O Dever". A informacao exposta neste site e, de facto, expectacular.
Hey Fernando. My name is also Fernando. I was born in Caminho de Cima, Freguesia das Ribeiras, Concelho das Lajes do Pico. While I was looking at the pictures on your page, I remembered one of my favorite adolescent memories from Pico. In the early 70s, shortly before we immigrated to California, my father signed a sharecropping contract with some people from Santa Cruz das Ribeiras. The agreement was for him to work some parcel near the "Vigia das Ribeiras." I was beside myself when he gave me the news. I had always wanted to have property near the "vigia." I obviously new that this contract would assist me in marrying work and pleasure. Soon I started taking cattle to graze on those parcel. While they were feeding I'd knock on the door and ask "Joao Vigia" to let me sneak a peak through his binoculars. Naturally, in the hopes of spotting a sperm whale's spout rise into the air and helping him fire the "bomba" to signal the whalers retelling seafaring tales near the "casa dos botes das Ribeiras." After the "bomba" exploded they would launch the "botes." Minutes later, I could see the "Maria Medina" speeding away trailed by its white caudal and followed by two "botes" with strong armed, brave whalers. Joao would give them instructions via the radio waves. He would say "Alo...alo Maria Mediana," then he would encode his directions to insure that the crew from "Ribeiras" would have the first shot at "trancar a baleia." I hope some of the Picoenses enjoy this story..." Comments by Fernando Brum from Newark, California, U.S.A.
"the picture of cabeco chao is wrong because it shows lages do pico... im from pico and i would like to make a page about it... i do speak also portuguese um abraco aqui da dinamarca. Eu sou do Pico e vivo no norte da Dinamarca. Vou ao Pico muitas vezes e tenho imensas fotos e historias de baleeiros e nao so... Um abraco amigo" Comments by Jose Garcia from Denmark
Omega: I did not intend to imply that the picture was from Cabeco Chao but I can see why you thought I did as I did not label it. I was not sure where it was from but I do have text beside it describing Cabeco Chao. Thanks for the information and I have labeled the picture now properly with your input.
"...I was born in Pico, but came to Canada in 1960 at the age of four. I don't have any memory of Portugal, except for bits and pieces. You mention the late Cardinal Nunes, my mother, is a cousin of the late Cardinal and my sister and I are trying to do a family tree on my mother's side of the family. Both of my parents are from Pico. I am thinking of visiting Pico -- but really didn't know too much about the island, history etc. until I read your page. Have you thought of putting a map of the island on your web page. So we can see what towns/villages you are talking about. Also, have you thought of also mentioning hotels, bed and breakfast places, etc. that you can recommend. I say this as you can get all kinds of information from travel agents, but unless you know someone who has been to a place and knows what is really good and what isn't then you are at the mercy of the travel agents. Hope this helps... I speak Portuguese, but do not read or write it." Comments by Regina Silva Robinson from Canada.
Omega: At left you will find a thumbnail picture you can click on to get a larger map as you requested of Pico. I have added a new category to the survey to cover your good suggestion of letting people know of suggested places to stay at while visiting Pico.
"...I will be visiting Pico for the first time 9/99." Comments by J.B. from Northern California, U.S.A.
"Hello I would like to know if you have any photos of Terra Do Pao or of Sao Caetano... if you do have any photos thoughs city's then please e-mail them to me thank you. Bye." Request by Eddie from ???
Omega: I do not have any pictures but I did find some information on the towns. The parish Sao Caetano (or Prainha do Sul) is still called Prainha do Galeao (literally, Little Beach of the Galleon) because of the ship built there by Garcia Goncalves Madruga in the 16th century to pay debts owed to King Joao III. Magnificent bay. Belonging to the parish is the locality called Terra do Pao, with a small church dedicated to St Margaret. Place to visit while there is the Church of Sao Caetano. If anyone has pictures to help out Eddie, please E-Mail me them and I will place them here.
"This past summer I met the perfect woman in Pico...Her name is Olga and she is around 19 years old and she is from a village near Riberinha. I am not Portuguese so it is hard for me to communicate with anyone from Pico. I went on vacation with my neighbours from Toronto and I met my angel, Olga. She has long straight black hair, she is about 5'4, very slim. I think her village is named something like Case do Mountain (sorry, I don't know any Portuguese), it is between Riberinha and a club called "The Skipper"...She has a brother named Robert who lives in Santa Margarita and he works as a delivery man to the bars and stores for stock. If anyone can help me...please." Request by J. from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Omega: If anyone can help J., please E-Mail me.
Response by Carmen from Canada: J, I go to Pico every summer and I think I know the Olga that you are talking about. If I'm right, I can get you in touch with her no problem. azoriana@sympatico.ca
"I am a Canadian born and raised, I do not have a drop of Portuguese heritage at all. My background is pure Irish/British, yet, I visited Pico this summer of 1998 with some Portuguese friends of mine and I was amazed at the simplicity and purity of life in the Acores. Although the boat ride was way too long, it was well worth it. The island is beautiful, the women are incredibly beautiful, and life is simple. I envy those people who have never been to the western world. Life here is way too complicated and advanced; sometimes, it is necessary to go back to the roots of our past. That is what Pico reminded me of; not in a bad way, in a way which sheds light on our entire reason for living." Comments by clarke96 from Canada
"Pico -Da [Candelaria do Pico} A muito que tu nao sabes como ate do. Pico me ademiro e tua mae o ate teu pai mas quando os Sr"s o Sar"s do Pico passavao para o {Faial} passavao a ser os {Meninos} {O} {Meninas} da {Cidade}..." Comments by Arlindo from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
"Pico, e Candelaria, quem aqui narceu devia ser mas barrista e patriota. Onde esta a estatua do DR.M.de Arriaga [1] Presidente de Portugal. Don. J. da C. Nunes nem so foi Cardial em Roma como o primeiro Patriaca das Indias dos Azores e talves o unico Portugal. O Don. Jaime Goulart, o primeiro Bispo de Timor. O Don. A.M.N. da Costa ,o primeiro Conego Arcidiago em Macau o menos dos Azores, o Sr.Graciano que mandou fazer as Escolas que encanou a agua Freguesia, e so soberao destruir o chafaris em sua omenagem. A unica Freguesia de Portugal que teve 2 Tunas. a primeira casa do Povo nos Azores, o primeiro Grupo Focleico a sair dos Azores mas que pena se venderem aos neminnos da CIDADE como se venderao e vendem E MUITO TRISTE???" Comments by Arlindo from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
"E pena o Dr.Manuel de Arriaga. Narceu no Guindastre. CANDELARIA do PICO; Nao avendo ninguem Que o possa DESMENTIR Sr's, HISTORIADES, Comprados por meninos" Comments by Arlindo from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
"Hello, My husband was born in Pico, the village of Selvada. We live in the U.S and would very much like to move there. I need to find out the job market, living conditions, monetary exchange and am desperately looking for a link to this information... maybe someone can give us a place to start. Also, if there is anyone in Pico looking for a couple with a small child to go there and live, please let me know. Thanks so much, kdb" Comments by kdb from ???, U.S.A.
Omega: The job market is not that good but the living condotions are great. The currency is the Escudo but it is changing to the Euro dollar. It has changed to the Euro for all electronic transactions.
"Dear Omega, eu tambem sou da Candelaria do Pico ... Sou uma picarota que reside nos E.U.A. e que muitas saudades tem da sua terra. Qualquer dia estou ai para rever toda essa beleza paisagistica e respirar esse ar puro que aqui nao existe. Um abraco do tamanho do oceano." Comments by MiaMia from East Providence, Road Island, U.S.A.
"Enjoyed the picture of Prainha. My grandmother was born there back in 1898 and I am going to visit Pico at the early part of 1999. Any information that anyone would like to send me, would be greatly appreciated. What is the weather like in January and February. Where is the best place to stay which is not too expensive. My cousin and I are bringing our mothers to visit the island and try to find out more for my geneology research. The surnames I am seeking are Silveria, Neves, Bernardo, Pereira, Alvernaz. Ancious to hear from anyone!!!" Comments by Marge Caswell from Newport, Road Island, U.S.A.
"Hi i was born in Pico and my parents were as well. I have the prevelliges to go to Pico every 3 years since i was 2 years old. All my familly is there and I went this year (July 4 till August 30) for my 5 time. I love it there so much it is so hard to come home... I would ALWAYS go back again." Comments by Chantelle Pimentel from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
"Hi, I was born in Pico, unfortunately, however, left when I was too young to remember. I visited there a couple of times, and again last summer (1997). I love all the food and culture there (especially the lapas and polvo). Yes, I am bothered that there are so many who know not of The Azores (much less Pico). The Festa da Santa Maria Madalena is great. It's a weeklong party, where you stay out till 4 and wake up to go again the next day. There is a concert every night. If any place, visit Madalena in July. I've never climbed Pico, but maybe one day." Comments by Filipe Medeiros from San Jose, California, U.S.A.
"I believe my father's family came from the island of Pico sometime around the turn of the century. I would like to know how I could find information that would help me. I know they came from the Azores, and I'm pretty sure from Pico. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My grandfathers name was Francis Joseph Goulart. It is my understanding that the name goes continually back to the Bastille in France. The family was said to have been exiled to the Azores in the French Revolution. They lived in The Azores till moving to the United States, about the turn of the century." Request by Francis J. Goulart from ??? ... If anyone out there can help Francis out please E-Mail me.
Response by Manuel Nunes from Canada: "Francis Joseph Goulart originally, if bornt in Portugal, was Francisco Jose Goulart I believe. You are right as far as being a french name, however I'm not sure about the French revolution, it is not likely. The Azores settlers came from Portugal mainland, France, Low countries. Goulart, Drumond, Dart, Ormonde, Bettencourt and other names are french names still existing in the Azores and from my understanding prior to the french revolution. There also some jews names in the Azores like Bensaude, Benarus (My history teacher). There are three districts in the Azores with capital in Horta, Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo. In each of these three cities there is a regional Archive where they keep all birth, marriage and death registries, except the most current which are kept in each town. Prior to the 1974 revolution they were all kept in each town "registo civil". Prior to the Republic (1910) they were kept in every village church as as the use in christian Europe. In the case of Pico Island you have 3 towns, Madalena, S.Roque (Cais do Pico) and Lajes. The records there go 1930. In the regional archive in Horta, Faial Island, the records go back to 1680. I traced my geneology in Horta to 1680, as far as they go. The villages in the south of Pico are the oldest ones. Lajes is the oldest town. I am from Bandeiras, close to Madalena in the north side close to Faial island. I live n Canada. Did you know that in Horta Harbour the Americans fighted the British, a battle with some significance in the American war for independence? Do you know about the Dabney's and their whaling business in Faial? I am sorry, I was carried away with my history. To finalize you also can find those records in the States, in Salt Lake City, I believe. The mormons, microfilmed those records and my be able to help you, however the archivists in Faial, I think will help you better. Any additional information, my email is MNUNES@YESIC.COM. I will be glad to share with you my very limited knowledge. Best regards, Manuel Nunes, a child of Atlantis, the old continent. PS: I would like to see the name Acores, changed to Atlantis, lets promote!"
Response by YukonGold7 from ???: "I have found my family's origins in Lajes, Pico. My family's surname is also Goularte. My grandfather immigrated at the turn of the century also. Maybe we are related somehow."
"...I am going to Pico in Oct. to look up old family I have never met. My grandfather came to Calif. in 1906 from Pico..." Comments by Gary Cardoza (Cardoso) from Chicago, Ilinois, U.S.A.
"Pico is the island i came from. I would like to see more of the town i came from "Prainha do Norte". Thanx" Request from Lucy Neves from ???... At left is a picture of Prainha do Norte
"Hello, my name is Luis Da Silva... I am however having trouble locating any information on work/jobs in Pico. I am also interested in the interest rates from Pico or Faial. You see, I am first generation Canadian and I am in the process of trying to immigrate to the Acores but would like to have some idea what I am getting into. My parents are there now on vacation and say that the earthquake they experienced not too long ago has done quite a bit of damage. Construction is right up my alley but its hard to send resumes when you can't find any employers. If you can help with any alternative site addresses of info please E-mail. Thanks for your time." Request from Luis Da Silva from ???.
"Hello. My name is Anna. I live in San Jose, California... My parents were both born and raised in Lajes. I have been there four times. My last visit was in June of the year that has just passed. I speak the language fluently and read it and write it in moderation. I will be visiting Pico again this coming August. I will be there for five weeks. I am very much looking forward to it. I was quite familiar with many of the areas you have in your web page. As a matter of fact I made a very good friend in Madalena when I was there. His father owns a restaurante in Areia Larga. His name is Rogerio Silva..." Comments by Anna Neves from San Jose, California, U.S.A.
"I left Pico when I was just a little girl. Since then, I have lived with an emptiness in my heart that the big, powerful America was never able to fill. I think Pico is the most precious piece of land on earth and my favourite spot is the ocean front from Cais do Mourato to Madalena." Comments by Maria Alice Jensen from Cupertino, California, U.S.A.
"...My parents are from Pico and very few people even know that this island or the Azores islands exist. I would love to see pictures of the festas, especially the Festa of Santa Maria Madalena since that is where my parents are from." Comments by Nathalie Medeiros from ???
"...I had the pleasure of visiting Pico in July 1996. I stayed with a friend and his family. What a beautiful place!! I will definatley go back..." Comments by Danielle Marchese from ???
E-Mail me your comments on Pico. Then watch for your comments to appear on this page in future updates. Let me know where you are E-Mailing from. Looking forward to hearing from you... :-)Omega(-:
jump within Top Miscellaneous Graphics and Quotes Audio Clips Favourite Links this page

GRAPHICS & INFORMATION:

Pico is an island that is experiencing economic development, made possible by the building of new ports and the airport, which was recently opened. Stretching out from the volcano, with an altitude of 2,351 metres, which gives it its name, the island of Pico (which means Peak) has an oblong shape, a length of 42 km, a width of 15.2 km and a total area of 447 km2. A plateau with secondary volcanic cones ends next to the sea in tall cliffs while the lowest area, in the west, has moderate slopes. After cattle had been put ashore there in the first half of the 15th century, the settlement of the island started in about 1460 when natives of northern Portugal arrived after calling at Terceira and Graciosa.
At left is a view from half way up the slope with Faial in the distance.
HISTORY: Pico's first Captain or Donee was Alvaro de Ornelas, who never took effective possession of the island, so that it was incorporated in the captaincy of Faial. It soon had its first town in the form of Lajes, followed by Sao Roque in 1542. The population initially concentrated on the growing of wheat and, to a limited extent, of woad, a dye-yielding plant exported to Flanders, the latter through the influence of the neighbouring island of Faial, but these activities were soon joined by grape growing and fishing.
Farming dominates Pico, with small fields enclosed by flowering hedgerows where the only sound may be that of tinkling cow bells, the song of wild canaries or the whistling of windmills.
HISTORY: In the 18th century there occured numerous volcanic eruptions. In 1723 Madalena was raised to the status of a town, confirming its economic importance as the port ensuring connections with Faial and as the place of residence of the owners of the large vineyards in the area, which by then was already producing wine.
The weather on Pico can change quickly from a wet morning it can soon become a hot sunny afternoon.
HISTORY: By dint of hard work the lava beds were turned into orchards and vineyards. The oidium attack, in the middle of the l9th century, destroyed the vines. Whalers in the waters of the Acores from the end of the 18th century, introduced a new activity in Pico, cachalot (sperm whale) hunting, which for years represented an important source of wealth for the island.
The Verdelho wine of Pico enjoyed international fame for over two hundred years. It was highly appreciated in a number of countries, namely, England, America and Russia, where it reached the table of the Czars.
MADALENA: The trading and communications centre of the island. Its position facing Faial and the town of Horta has made it, since the initial settlement period, the port that ensures links with the neighbouring island.
Pico has so far missed much of the frenetic development experienced in mainland Europe and a simple, tranquil, paced way of life can frequently be enjoyed.
MADALENA: Picturesque coasting vessels connect it to Horta, Faial. Mass tourism has all but passed by this enchanted island, with its quiet country lanes, friendly local people and impressive views.
Far out in the Atlantic ocean Pico lies, a green archipelago, blessed with a mild climate and a mountain volcano providing exquisite landscapes.
At left facing Madalena lie the curious islets "Deitado" (Lying Down) and "Em pé" (Standing), where birds make their nests.
CANDELARIA: Picturesque village in an area of vineyards and orchards. This is the town that my mothers family is from. My uncle and aunt and cousins, etc. still live there. It is a beautiful town and I can't wait to go back and visit. It is also the birthplace of the late cardinal, José da Costa Nunes. A place to visit while there is the Church of Nossa Senhora das Candeias.
The obvious attraction of this island is the impressive volcanic cone of Pico Alto 2351m (7713ft).
SAO MATEUS: São Mateus is one of the oldest villages on the island. My fathers family is from there and its another village that I look forward to revisting as I left the islands when I was only two and half years old. The towns foundation dates back to 1482. It is an alternative port for connections with Faial and one of the last existing bases for whale hunting. The town is known for its lace-makers, who produce excellent crochet work. When there visit the Church of São Mateus.
The volcanic cone of Pico is higher than any other place in the Acores or on the Portuguese mainland, and dominates the island and all others around it. A stately green pyramid of truly majestic proportions, it is one of the most beautiful in the world.
VINEYARDS: They stretch all over the western coast of Pico, particularly at Madatena, Bandeiras, Santa Luzia, Criação Velha and Candelária, and also to the south up to Manhenha in the parish of Piedade.
Wales played an important part in Pico's history and are a favorite present day tourist attraction.
CALHETA DE NESQUIM: It is an important old port. It was the typical base for whale hunting, with tug boats and elegant canoes. The village was the place where the first base for hunting the sperm whale was set up in 1876. One of the places to see when visiting the village is the Church of São Sebastião.
AREIA LARGA: At Areia Larga, a traditional summer resort, one may find the largest cannery in the Acores and a co-operative wine cellar.
BANDEIRAS: A village connected with the "wine cycle" and the prosperity it brought to the island in the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the sites is the Church of Nossa Senhora da Boa Nova which has construction dating from the middle of the l9th century. It has an excellent facade made of good dressed stores.
CACHORRO: In the resort of Cachorro, there is an old chapel, which is the destination of the most traditional penitential pilgrimage of the people of the Acores.
At left is a picture of Lages do Pico.
CABECO CHAO: The locality called Cabeço Chão has a outstanding micro-climate in the mild weather that is enjoyed all over the island. Here, too, is one of the most characteristic rural chapels, in which the artistic wood carvings of the altar are outstanding.
SANTA LUZIA: Santa Luzia is a characteristic village. It is close to the small, picturesque sea-side villages of Lajido and Cabrito.
At left is a picture of Pico and Faial taken by NASA from the Space Shuttle.
SAO MATEUS: The festival of Bom Jesus in São Mateus is well attended. The parish is colourfully decorated for the occasion with music supplied by bands. The festival, every year on 6th August, is one of the most important religious festivals in the Acores with the high point being the Ecce Home.
At left is a picture of Pico from the air.
AREIA LARGA: At Areia Larga, a traditional summer resort, you may enjoy the sight of some of the oldest manor houses of the "verdelho" cycle. Some places to see when visiting the village are the Church of Santa Maria Madalena; the Town Hall and the wine Museum set up in the former Carmelite convent.
At left, the Shuttle Radar Laboratory acquired a multiparameter synthetic aperture radar image of the PICO stratovolcano, on the island of Pico as part of its SRL-2 mission in October of 1994. The multi-wavelength (L and C-bands) and multiparameter image displayed combines L-band HH polarization, L-band HV polarization (cross polarized), and C-band HH polarization as Red, Green and Blue to better differentiate surface textures on the upper reaches of this 2311 m high cone.
By studying the subtle surface textures revealed via imaging radar, supplemented with high resolution airborne laser altimeter profiles (acquired by NASA in September 1994), we can develop empirical models associated with the most unstable and likely to fail regions of the Pico volcano.
Scientists at the Centro de Vulcanologia (Dr. V. H. Forjaz and others) in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, Acores are working with NASA scientists to investigate the recent erosional history of Pico.
jump within Top Miscellaneous Graphics and Quotes Audio Clips Favourite Links this page
AUDIO:
CDnow Due to numerous requests for CD's, I have placed these links to the CDnow site, where you can order the CD's. Click on each title to view the CD's available for each title: [Amalia Rodrigues], [Dulce Pontes], [Madredeus], [Guitarradas Portuguesas], [Music From Portugal], [Portugal], [Best Of Portugal], [Cream Of Portuguese Music], [Portugal Totally Mixed], [Portugal-Totally Mixed], [Una Casa Portugesa]
Please enter your e-mail address if you would like to receive e-mail (courtesy of NetMind) letting you know when this page has been updated:
jump within Top Miscellaneous Graphics and Quotes Audio Clips Favourite Links this page
OTHER OMEGA PAGES
1. HOME PAGE 2. N/A 3. ACORES PAGE
4. FAIAL PAGE 5. PICO PAGE 6. MUSIC PAGES
7. WINNIPEG PAGES 8. TORONTO PAGE 9. DALI PAGE
10. SCI-FI PAGE 11. BOOKS PAGE 12. OMEGA UNIVERSE
SOME OF MY FAVOURITE LINKS
Fernando's Homepage (Winnipeg). Net Digit (for info on counters).
Pico Island (Acores) Volcano Topography And Volcanic Hazards (NASA)
Walking The Mountains Of The World
The Web-Counter transporter logs indicate that you are the... life-form to beam into the Omega Universe since May 1st, 1996 ... and since September 28th, 1998 to this particular web page you are visitor number:
[EMAIL] omega@pathcom.com

[i] This page was created by Fernando (-:Omega:-) Goulart [i]
Pico, PICO, pico, Pico, PICO, pico, Pico, PICO, pico, Azores, Acores, Pico, Portugal, azores, acores, pico, portugal, AZORES, ACORES, PICO, PORTUGAL, Azores, Acores, Pico, Portugal, azores, acores, pico, portugal, AZORES, ACORES, PICO, PORTUGAL, Azores, Acores, Pico, Portugal, azores, acores, pico, portugal, AZORES, ACORES, PICO, PORTUGAL, Faial, volcano, Atlantic ocean, islands, archipelago, Europe, lottery, 649, 646, 747, lottario, super7, loto, Goulart, Las Vegas, casino, Omega, Winnipeg, Toronto, music, Meatloaf, Kiss, Scorpions, Metallica, Nazareth, Alice Cooper, Salvador Dali, Altavista, Infoseek, search engines, Yahoo, Inktomi, Picasso, Seafood, Fernando Goulart, Trading Cards, Non-Sport, Sport, Sci-Fi, Science Fiction, Type O Negative, Dan Simmons, Stephen King, book, Upper Deck, Score, McDonalds, Mad Magazine, Jeffrey Jones, NHL, Deep Purple, Robert Fulford, Travel, Guide, George Bryant, Fodor, Allan Gould, Frommer, Marilyn Wood, Arthur Frommer, Johnny Wales, Claire MacKay, Accidental City, The Big Bazoohley, Bazoohley, Abira Ali, Peter Carey, Francis Henry, Cat's Eye, Margaret Atwood, Death By Degrees, Eric Wright, Labour Of Love, Peter McGehee, Doug Wilson, Carl E. James, Murder At The Movies, A. E. Eddenden, NHL, Howard Berger, Striking Out, Alison Gordon, Striking Out: A Kate Henry Mystery, A Kate Henry Mystery, Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, Richard Rambeck, Chrys Govens, Hawkwind, Las Vegas, Nevada, Blackjack, Slot Machine, School's Out, Eighteen, Jets, CFL, Blue Bombers, Perogies, Pizza