The Azores are Portuguese territory. However, they have their own government. They are therefore autonomous, yet dependent on Portugal.
Government:
In 1976, the archipelago was declared an autonomous region. However, a common capital could not be agreed upon. Ponta Delgada, Angra do Heroísmo, and Horta were ultimately entrusted with governmental functions. The regional government, including the president, is located in Ponta Delgada. The regional parliament meets in Horta and is elected every four years. Each island sends two representatives, with additional representatives depending on population size. The minister of the republic is based in Angra do Heroísmo.
Flag:
The flag consists of two vertical stripes in blue and white. On October 18.10.1830, 1911, the followers of Queen Maria in the Azores adopted a blue and white flag. It later became the new national flag of Portugal and remained in use until XNUMX. The bird is reminiscent of the many buzzards that were mistaken for falcons at the time of the Discoveries and gave the islands their current name. The nine stars represent the nine islands of the archipelago. Their affiliation with Portugal is symbolized by the Portuguese coat of arms.
