The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism highlighted the added value of the classification of Capelinhos Volcano as Natural Monument in the context of the Network of Protected Areas of the Azores, given its "geological importance and its significant visiting value."
 
Marta Guerreiro spoke during the placement of the identification board of "Capelinhos Volcano Natural Monument," a protected area within Faial Natural Park. On the occasion, she highlighted its creation as a result of the Regional Government's efforts.
 
"Today's act is symbolic and embodies the measures taken to promote and safeguard our heritage, such as the specific case of Capelinhos Volcano for its specificities and identity, not only on this island but also in the Azores as a whole," stressed the government official.
 
Marta Guerreiro also stated that this classification took into account "aesthetic and natural values," highlighting the "geological uniqueness and biodiversity associated with species and habitats found in this protected area."
 
The Secretary for the Environment also emphasised the "cultural and historical significance of the eruption of Capelinhos Volcano" as the most recent natural territory of Portugal, whose "relevance is undeniable," considering that "its integrity must be preserved."
 
This classification marks the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the volcanic eruption and the 10th anniversary of the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre. It has become a museum space of reference regarding the dissemination of this environmental heritage since 2008.
 
"In its first decade of existence, the Interpretation Centre received about 275 thousand visitors, which demonstrates its importance in promoting our environmental values, not only among locals but also among those visiting this protected area, one of the symbols of the Azores," said the Regional Secretary.
 
Marta Guerreiro also stressed that the creation of this natural monument is in line with the items of the Programme of the Government on the promotion of natural heritage in the Azores and Natural Parks as well as the consolidation of the Network of Protected Areas and the Natura 2000 Network.
 
Moreover, the Regional Secretary added that the installation of the vertical identification board of Capelinhos Volcano Natural Monument marks the beginning of the "process for the replacement of boards in all protected areas, an investment of 215 thousand Euros." The intervention includes the updating of information and a new layout in a set of 275 information boards throughout all islands of the archipelago.