Velas is a constituent republic of Atlantic Region.
| Velas Republic | |
|---|---|
| Island of Sao Jorge | |
| Constituent Republic of Vekllei | |
 |
|
| Part of the Atlantic Region | |
| The island is famous for its fajas, flat areas of coastline backed by steep cliffs that are formed by lava flows meeting the sea. | |
| Population | 12,662 |
| Demographics |
90% Azorean 6% European 2% African
2% other
|
| Economy | Food & drink Arable farming, Livestock & dairy |
| Produces | Wine, Cheese, Dairy, Beef, Fish |
| Working week | 18.7 hours |
| Specialisation | Agriculture, Land & Sea |
| Accession | 1982, 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.
- Adhesives
- Barley
- Electronic Components
- Fish
- Glass
- Wheat
- Grapes
- Maize
- Milk
- Palm Oil
- Paper
- Printing Ink
- Pulp
- Beans
- Rare Earths
- Rye
- Salt
- Sheep
- Wheat
Climate
Humid and subtropical, with pleasant temperatures year-round. The mountainous highlands are slightly cooler than the coastal fajas.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 17° 13° 17° 12° 17° 13° 18° 13° 19° 14° 22° 17° 24° 19° 26° 20° 25° 19° 22° 17° 19° 15° 18° 14°
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun 17° 13° 17° 12° 17° 13° 18° 13° 19° 14° 22° 17° Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 24° 19° 26° 20° 25° 19° 22° 17° 19° 15° 18° 14°
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.
- 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.
- Agriculture, Land & Sea 14.2%
- Skilled Trades & Construction 9.8%
- Education 9.8%
- Healthcare 9.7%
All 19 groups
Hide table
- Agriculture, Land & Sea 14.2%
- Skilled Trades & Construction 9.8%
- Education 9.8%
- Healthcare 9.7%
| Occupation | Share | Posts |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, Land & Sea | 14.2% | 2,210 |
| Skilled Trades & Construction | 9.8% | 1,520 |
| Education | 9.8% | 1,510 |
| Healthcare | 9.7% | 1,490 |
| Domestic | 8.5% | 1,320 |
| Industry | 6.5% | 1,010 |
| Security & Defence | 5.6% | 870 |
| Government & Civil Administration | 5.3% | 820 |
| Arts & Media | 5.2% | 800 |
| Transport | 4.5% | 690 |
| Retail, Distribution & Logistics | 4.0% | 610 |
| Economic Planning | 3.0% | 460 |
| Sport & Recreation | 2.9% | 460 |
| Hospitality & Participatory Trades | 2.9% | 450 |
| Information & Communications | 2.2% | 350 |
| Science & Research | 2.0% | 310 |
| Law & Justice | 1.7% | 270 |
| Energy & Resources | 1.1% | 180 |
| Religious & Ceremonial | 1.0% | 150 |
Register estimates of posts located in the republic, rounded; figures under 50 suppressed. Includes 180 posts held by non-residents.
-
1982
Remaining Azores territories accede, including Costa Verde, Fayal, Flores, Graciosa, Maria, Mira, Pico, Porto Santo, Terceira, and Velas