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Velas Republic

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Constituent Republic

Velas is a constituent republic of Atlantic Region.

❊ EFF 01 Jan 01
Region Atlantic Rep 11 of 11 · Acc. 1976, as part of the Azores Delegation
Capital Dismas 243.65 km²
Population — Republic
Velas Republic
Island of Sao Jorge
Constituent Republic of Vekllei
Part of the Atlantic Region
Population 12,662
Demographics 90% Azorean · 6% European · 2% African · 2% other
Accession 1976, as part of the Azores Delegation
Area 243.65 km²
Capital Dismas
Languages English, Portuguese

The Velas Republic is a constituent republic of Vekllei in the Atlantic Ocean, in the middle of the Azores archipelago. It is a striking island of equal peculiarity and beauty, shaped long and thin and resembling a mountain range rising directly from the ocean. Its unique landmass indicates its origins atop a volcanic fissure between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, and measures 55km long from east to west.

At only 7km across at its widest point, there is little flat land available for settlement on the island. The island is famous for its fajas, flat areas of coastline backed by steep cliffs that are formed by lava flows meeting the sea. Many Velas towns are crowded into these little fajas, and the rest are mostly found in the hilly tops of the range that runs the length of the island.

In about the middle of the island, the land begins to rise and peaks in a sequence of volcanic craters in various stages of volcanic activity. The highland plateau, as it is called, is comparatively flat and give the island its characteristic tabletop relief. A lot of agriculture is performed up here, indulging its rich volcanic soils to grow wine and raise livestock. Its port towns are more developed and are where you’ll find the government, hospitals and schools.

Despite its small population, the republic’s historical isolation has allowed the proliferation of many unique traditions and customs. The island has a strong religious character, and has several religious festivals and pilgrimages that take place throughout the year. Velatians are not just pious, however – they love to feast and dance, and are famous for the quality of their wines, cheeses and seafood. Life there is provincial and family and community is deeply important. Many Velatians live on homesteads and may only visit towns once a week.

Transport is around the republic is complicated by its dramatic terrain. A rail line, beginning in the capital, rises with the highland plateau and heads southeast. Along the way, at each station, steep funiculars provide access to the fajas that dot the isolated coast. The republic does not have an airport, and is connected to the rest of the Atlantic Region by ferry.

Velatians speak Portuguese, but those in the towns can communicate in English serviceably. They do not receive many outsiders compared to their neighbouring republics, but interest in tourism in the republic has been stirred by its wine and some inns operate busily in the winter, mostly in the capital and the highlands.

Climate

Humid and subtropical, with pleasant temperatures year-round. The mountainous highlands are slightly cooler than the coastal fajas.

Public Holidays

  • New Year’s Day 1 Jan
  • Carnival
  • Good Friday
  • Easter
  • Espirito Santo
  • Commonwealth Day 1 May
  • Republic Day 15 May
  • Azores Day 1 Jun
  • Corpus Christi
  • Assumption Day 15 Aug
  • All Saints Day 1 Nov
  • Feast of Imm. Con. 8 Dec
  • Christmas Day 25 Dec
  • In addition to public holidays, Velas is home to regular Romarias (religious pilgrimages) scattered throughout the year.
Production Production Map
Demographics Demographics of the Commonwealth
  • Azorean 90.0%
  • European 6.0%
  • African 2.0%
  • Americas 2.0%
Occupations
Population: 12,662 Labour Force: 8,040 Est. Workers: 10,055 Unemployment: 0.0% (workers exceed labour force by 25.1%)
OccupationShareWorkers
Agriculture, Land & Sea 18.4% 1,854
Industry 15.0% 1,510
Education 7.7% 769
Healthcare 7.6% 761
Domestic 6.7% 672
Skilled Trades & Construction 6.3% 636
Transport 5.8% 581
Security & Defence 5.7% 569
Government & Civil Administration 4.2% 420
Arts & Media 4.1% 408
Hospitality & Participatory Trades 3.8% 385
Retail, Distribution & Logistics 3.1% 313
Economic Planning 2.4% 242
Sport & Recreation 2.3% 232
Information & Communications 1.8% 176
Science & Research 1.6% 161
Energy & Resources 1.5% 151
Law & Justice 1.4% 137
Religious & Ceremonial 0.8% 78
Points of Interest
  • Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo: A stunning coastal plain famous for its unique lagoon, surfing spots, and natural beauty (accessible by funicular).
  • Pico da Esperança: The highest peak on Velas, offering panoramic views of the island and neighbouring islands, with hiking trails through volcanic landscapes.
  • Velas Town: The charming main town of the island, known for its historic architecture, vibrant markets, and the Church of St George.
  • Fajã dos Cubres: A scenic coastal area with traditional stone houses, popular for its natural pools and serene atmosphere.
  • Poço do Bacalhau: Beautiful waterfall near Fajã Grande, surrounded by lush vegetation and providing an idyllic spot for swimming and relaxation.
  • Sete Fontes Forest Park: Park with picnic areas, native flora, and walking trails.
  • Festival de Julho: An annual festival held in Velas featuring traditional music, dance, and local culinary delights, celebrating the republic’s culture.
  • Petal Ocean Tea Company: Nationally cherished tea company predating the Commonwealth by several hundred years.
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