Azores

The azores are a group of [Portugal | Portuguese] islands situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, about two hours flying time from Lisbon (about 1,500 Km) and five hours flying time from the eastern coast of North America (about 3,900 Km). The archipelago is spread out in the area of the parallel that passes through Lisbon (39º, 43'/39º, 55' North Latitude), giving it a moderate climate, with mild annual oscillation. The nine islands have a total area of 2,355 km². Their individual areas vary between 747 Km² (S&atild;o Miguel) and 17 Km2 (Corvo). The volcanic origin of all the islands is revealed by their volcanic cones and craters. Pico, a volcano that stands 2,351 meters high on the island of the same name, has the highest altitude in the Azores.

The nine islands are divided in three Groups:

The Eastern Group of S&atild;o Miguel and Santa Maria, the Central Group of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, and the Western Group of Flores and Corvo.