The archipelago of the Azores is situated 907 miles from the European coast and 2330 miles from North America.

Consisting of nine islands, it is divided into three groups: the eastern (São Miguel and Santa Maria islands), the central (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial islands), and the western (Corvo and Flores islands).

The nine islands have a total surface area of 2.333 km2 and an Exclusive Economic Zone extending over 984.300 km2. Island area range between 747 km2 (São Miguel island and 17 km2 (Corvo island).

The archipelago was colonized by the Portuguese in the mid-15th century.

Famous for deep sea fishing, local cheeses, red and white wine production, and many varieties of tropical fruit - the islands are becoming a increasingly popular tourist destination.