Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre, Geological museum in Capelo, Faial Island, Portugal.
The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre is a museum on Faial Island dedicated to volcanology and geology. The exhibition displays lava formations, mineral samples, interactive models, and videos that explain the volcano's formation and impact.
The centre opened in 2008 as a response to the 1957-1958 eruption that changed Faial's coastline and created new land. This catastrophe had deep impacts on the island's residents and their history.
The name refers directly to the 1957-1958 eruption that reshaped the island and left its mark on the community. The exhibitions show how residents lived through this natural event and rebuilt their homes and lives afterward.
The museum is located next to the eruption site and can be visited year-round, with extended hours during warmer months. Paths are available to explore the grounds and see the new geological formations created by the eruption.
The building is partially built underground to preserve the natural landscape and minimize the visible impact of the volcano. This approach lets visitors see the volcanic landscape as it appeared after the disaster.
Location: Capelo
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Operator: Azorina - S.A. Soc. de Gestão Ambiental e Conservação da Natureza
Address: Farol dos Capelinhos, 9900-000 Capelo, Portugal
Opening Hours: June-September: 10:00-18:00; October-May: Tuesday-Friday 10:00-17:00; October-May: Holidays,Saturday,Sunday 14:00-17:30; January 1 off; easter off; easter -46 days off; December 24-25 off; December 31 off
Phone: +351292200470
Email: pnfaial.vulcaodoscapelinhos@azores.gov.pt
GPS coordinates: 38.59680,-28.82544
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:48
The Azores archipelago stretches about 1500 kilometers off the coast of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean. The nine islands were born through volcanic activity, creating a land of unusual sights: craters turned into lakes, hot springs bubbling from the ground, caves formed naturally in the rocks, and...
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