São Brás Fort and Acores Military Museum, Ponta Delgada

The São Brás Fort, also known as São Brás Castle, is a pinnacle of 16th-century military architecture. Regarded as the most formidable fortification on São Miguel Island, it was strategically constructed at the original anchorage of Ponta Delgada, primarily to shield against relentless pirate and corsair assaults common in this Atlantic region. Its historical and defensive significance earned it the classification as a Property of Public Interest in 1953.

Originally adorned with a chapel dedicated to Saint Bárbara, the fort underwent changes throughout the 20th century, seeing the demolition of its chapel and the introduction of a monument honoring the casualties of the Great War in the 1930s. Although the memorial was designed by architect Raul Lino and sculptor Diogo de Macedo, its placement within the ancient walls received critique due to its scale and lack of harmony with the surroundings.

During the tumultuous period of the Second World War, São Brás Fort underwent substantial modifications, such as the reinforcement of covers to withstand air-naval bombardment and the installation of heavy machine gun positions. It was during this time that it also functioned as the headquarters of the Military Command of the Azores. Even today, it continues to serve as the headquarters of the Military Zone of the Azores and houses a Military Museum established in 1999, highlighting its historical and strategic importance in preserving the island's heritage.

The Azores Military Museum is a compelling site that offers an immersive journey through an extensive array of movable military artifacts, shedding light on pivotal moments in Portuguese military history. Within its confines, visitors can explore the rich historical context of significant events like the First World War and the Ultramar War. This insightful exploration is facilitated by an assortment of exhibits that reflect on the impact and narratives of these crucial periods.

Its outdoor spaces, thoughtfully designed through earthworks, now offer panoramic vistas overlooking Ponta Delgada, providing views previously inaccessible to visitors. These vantage points provide an added dimension to the museum experience, allowing guests to appreciate the historical significance of the site while taking in the contemporary landscape of the city.