# São Miguel Island

> island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores

**Wikidata**: [Q209036](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q209036)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/São_Miguel_Island)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/s-o-miguel-island

## Summary
São Miguel Island is an island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, part of the autonomous region of Azores. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean and has a population of approximately 137,830 people, making it the most populous island in the Azores. The island is known for its volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Part of the Azores archipelago, Atlantic Ocean
- **Population**: 137,830 (2023 estimate)
- **Coordinates**: Latitude 37.8°, Longitude -25.5°
- **Part of**: Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal
- **Inception**: Part of the Azores since 1976
- **Country**: Portugal
- **Sitelink Count**: 61
- **Aliases**: The Green Island, San Miguel Island, St. Michael's
- **Wikipedia Title**: São Miguel Island
- **Wikidata Description**: Island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores

## FAQs
**What is the population of São Miguel Island?**
São Miguel Island has a population of approximately 137,830 people, making it the most populous island in the Azores. The island's population is concentrated in the municipality of Ponta Delgada, which has a sitelink count of 65.

**Where is São Miguel Island located?**
São Miguel Island is located in the Atlantic Ocean and is part of the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal. The island has coordinates of latitude 37.8° and longitude -25.5°.

**What is the significance of São Miguel Island?**
São Miguel Island is significant for its volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. It is the most populous island in the Azores and serves as a key part of Portugal's autonomous regions.

**What is the climate like on São Miguel Island?**
The climate on São Miguel Island is temperate, with four distinct seasons. The island's landscape is characterized by rolling plains and low mountain ranges, with the highest point being Mount Pico.

**What are the major cities on São Miguel Island?**
The major city on São Miguel Island is Ponta Delgada, which is the capital of the Azores and the largest municipality on the island. Ponta Delgada was founded in 1450 and has a sitelink count of 65.

## Why It Matters
São Miguel Island is a vital part of the Azores archipelago, contributing significantly to Portugal's cultural, economic, and environmental heritage. As the most populous island in the region, it plays a crucial role in the development and governance of the Azores. The island's volcanic landscapes and biodiversity make it a unique destination for tourism and scientific research. Additionally, São Miguel Island serves as a hub for maritime activities and international relations, further enhancing its importance in the broader context of the Azores and Portugal.

## Notable For
- **Most Populous Island in the Azores**: With a population of 137,830, São Miguel Island is the largest and most densely populated in the Azores.
- **Volcanic Landscapes**: Known for its volcanic activity and unique geological formations, including Mount Pico, the highest point in Portugal.
- **Cultural Heritage**: Home to Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores, which has a rich history and significant cultural influence.
- **Biodiversity**: The island is rich in flora and fauna, making it an important site for ecological research and conservation.
- **Tourism Hub**: A popular destination for tourists seeking volcanic landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.

## Body

### Geography and Environment
São Miguel Island is located in the Atlantic Ocean and is part of the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal. The island has coordinates of latitude 37.8° and longitude -25.5° and is characterized by its volcanic landscapes, rolling plains, and low mountain ranges. The highest point on the island is Mount Pico, which is also the highest point in Portugal. The island's climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons, and it is known for its rich biodiversity.

### Demographics and Society
São Miguel Island has a population of approximately 137,830 people, making it the most populous island in the Azores. The population is concentrated in the municipality of Ponta Delgada, which was founded in 1450 and has a sitelink count of 65. The island's society is diverse and culturally rich, with a strong emphasis on Portuguese heritage and traditions.

### History and Independence
São Miguel Island is part of the Azores archipelago, which became an autonomous region of Portugal in 1976. The island's history is closely tied to the broader history of the Azores and Portugal, including its independence from Spain in 1139. The island's cultural and historical significance is reflected in its landmarks, such as Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores.

### Government and Politics
São Miguel Island is governed as part of the Azores autonomous region, which has its own administrative and political structure. The island's political system is characterized by its integration into the broader governance of Portugal, including its membership in international organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, and NATO.

### Economy and Infrastructure
The economy of São Miguel Island is driven by tourism, agriculture, and maritime activities. The island's infrastructure includes a right-hand traffic system and a well-developed transportation network, including roads, ports, and airports. The island's economy is supported by its rich natural resources and cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and investors.

### International Relations and Memberships
São Miguel Island is part of the Azores archipelago, which maintains diplomatic relations with numerous countries and is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, and NATO. The island's international relations are closely tied to the broader policies and interests of Portugal.

### Symbols and Culture
São Miguel Island is known for its cultural heritage, including its national symbols such as the flag, coat of arms, and anthem. The island's cultural highlights include its historic capital, Ponta Delgada, and its contributions to literature, music, and sports. The island's cultural significance is reflected in its festivals, traditions, and artistic expressions.

### Administrative Divisions
São Miguel Island is part of the Azores archipelago, which is divided into 18 districts and 2 autonomous regions: Azores and Madeira. The island's administrative divisions contribute to the regional diversity and governance of the Azores.

### Technical Identifiers and Standards
São Miguel Island uses the .pt top-level internet domain and has an international calling code of +351. The island's technical identifiers and standards include its ISO codes, emergency number, and timezone, which are aligned with the broader standards of Portugal and the Azores.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. OpenStreetMap
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. GeoNames
6. KBpedia