Azores inhabitants. The nine islands that compose the archipelago occupy a surface area of , that includes both the main islands and many islets located in their vicinities. Each of the islands has its own distinct geomorphological characteristics that make them unique: Corvo (the smallest island) is a crater of a major Plinian eruption; Flores (its neighbor on the North American Plate) is a rugged island carved by many valleys and escarpments; Faial characterized for its shield volcano and caldera (Cabeço Gordo); Pico, is the highest point, at , in the Azores and continental Portugal; Graciosa is known for its active
Hymn of the Azores Hymn of the Azores The Hymn of the Azores () is an unofficial regional anthem used during some ceremonies in the Portuguese autonomous region of the Azores. For official purposes the national anthem "A Portuguesa" is always used during government events, in sporting venues, and other civic ceremonies. The original song was composed by Joaquim Lima, a musician and director, of the Philharmonic Band of Rabo de Peixe, the Filarmónica Progresso do Norte, in the 1890s, when a movement for autonomy was growing within the archipelago. It was first played by the band on 3 February 1894, and referred to