On December 1st, at 4:00 pm, the Azores Sea Observatory will inaugurate the Exhibition Space on Underwater Cultural and Natural Heritage of the Azores, installed at the Porto Pim Whale Factory, in Horta. This new interpretive space presents to the public a collection of remains and stories revealed through more than twenty years of archaeological and scientific research in the bay and port of the city.
The exhibition highlights Horta’s importance in Atlantic maritime connections, gathering information on shipwrecks and other stories associated with navigation. At the same time, it showcases the ecological value of the coastal areas of Porto Pim and the Faial–Pico Channel, underlining the need to protect the marine habitats that are part of this history. The Horta Museum is providing pieces from its collection, and its Conservation and Restoration Department is responsible for treating some of the archaeological materials on display. G2C2 Productions is a partner in producing the multimedia content accompanying the exhibition, helping make the experience more engaging and accessible.

The initiative is part of the European ecoRoute project, which promotes the appreciation of underwater heritage as a distinctive element for developing sustainable tourism in outermost regions. In the Azores, it is carried out by OMA, the Faial Sustainable Tourism Association (ATSF), and CHAM – the Centre for the Humanities of NOVA University Lisbon, with the collaboration of several local institutions.

The inauguration of this new interpretive centre also marks the start of other initiatives planned under ecoRoute, among which the Porto Pim underwater trail stands out. This trail will allow the public to discover in situ aspects of biodiversity and elements related to submerged cultural heritage. The project also includes the installation of interpretive signage in various areas of interest, with information panels and QR codes to contextualize the natural and archaeological heritage of the area.

With this new cultural offering, Horta reinforces its commitment to ocean literacy, the appreciation of its historical and natural heritage, and the promotion of a sustainable tourism model based on knowledge and respect for the sea.