Ilhéus das Cabras

Terceira, The Azores (Açores), Portugal (March 2001)

Ilhéus das Cabras. My own photo.
Ilhéus das Cabras

Two dramatic rocks rise above the ocean off of the eastern end of Terceira’s southern coast (map). These are the Ilhéus das Cabras, the “Goat Islands,” and they serve as silent witnesses to the power of the Earth. Not too long ago these jagged fragments joined to form a single nub. Then a volcano obliterated them. Now concave and completely cleaved in two like a bowl dropped in the sink, they contribute to the unexpected scenery along Terceira’s southern coast.

Located west of Porto Judeu along the coastal road, the islets show obvious signs of destruction.


From a Distance

Ilhéus das Cabras Panorama. My own photo.
Ilhéus das Cabras Panorama

From further away the view appears much more peaceful. Water shimmers in the sunshine around two restful mounds in the distance.


Articles in the Azores Series


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