Stones of Humankind

Exhibition of carved stones

The Azores are a territory composed of igneous or magmatic rocks of volcanic origine, some several million years old (Ma) and others just a few hundred, formed during the period of human settlement.

Transformed into cultural objects, these materials become testimonies of culture, reflections of experiences, customs, and needs.

The Stone Species Reserve of the Angra do Heroísmo Museum brings together a variety of materials that illustrate the island’s past daily life since its earliest days of settlement. On display are tombstones and coats of arms, a wide variety of architectural elements from old private and religious buildings, as well as domestic equipment such as sinks, millstones, and filters.

Among the most intriguing pieces are a 15th-century tombstone—probably the oldest known in the Azorean islands—Protestant community tombstones from the early 19th century on Terceira Island, and mid-20th century coats of arms, which were never used.

Come and explore this unique heritage and witness history carved in stone!