Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago made up of 21 islands off the northeast coast of Brazil, in the South Atlantic Ocean.
It falls in the ocean between the continents of Africa and South America. The Atlantic waves are responsible for the crystal clear warm water surrounding the islands. Also, the breathtaking landscape makes this place tourist friendly and is considered a favourite spot for scuba diving. To maintain the natural beauty and safeguard the diverse ecosystem, only about 400 to 500 tourists are allowed each day, and they have to pay an Environmental Preservation Tax.
Landform
The islands of Fernando de Noronha are the result of a volcanic activity below the Atlantic. The peaks of submerged mountains and volcanic rocks can be seen. These are high on alkaline content.
The core island of Fernando de Noronha makes up 91% of the total area whereas the population of the archipelago is less than 3,000.
Fernando de Noronha has a humid climate. The rainy season falls between the months of February and July and August to January is the dry season. During the monsoons, it is unlikely that it will rain every day. Intermittent rains coupled with sunshine are certainly a sight to watch.
The western shoreline of the main island is made up of cliffs along with sandy beaches. Two Brothers, a rock formation, and the popular Pig Beach are located to the west of the island.
Widespread sand dunes are present in the east , and so is the Atalaia Beach which has a shallow natural pool, the largest one on the island.
The southeast has a freshwater lake. Along the shoreline is the Sancho Bay, considered the most beautiful beach on the island.
In the north , are several cliffs on Baía dos Golfinhos, from which one can see thousands of spinner dolphins playing in the water.
History
Many countries have invaded Fernando de Noronha. The first person to set foot was Amerigo Vespucci and his Portuguese team in 1503. In 1534, the English entered the islands. From 1556 to 1612, the French were in control. In 1628, the Dutch showed interest but just about two years later a Spanish-Portuguese military team invaded Fernando de Noronha. The Dutch came in again in 1635. The 20-year Dutch control finally ended and the archipelago was handed over to the Portuguese. As a result most locals speak the language.
Culture
The art and craft in the region draw inspiration from Brazil and its varied cultures, with a touch of European as well as African-American influences. Brazilians are known for their usage of bold colours. And these colours are apparent in the ceramic, wood, and fabrics you see here. This place is known for weaving and embroidery.
The Portuguese built churches and forts in the 18th century. A World Heritage Site, as declared by the UNESCO in 2001, Fernando de Noronha attracts scientists to research the islands’ plant as well as the animal life. The island is also home to one of the largest sea bird breeding colonies in the South Atlantic.
Cuisine
Because of its proximity to Pernambuco mainland in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha’s cuisine shares some similarities — a staple diet of rice and beans. Being an archipelago, fish stews are a delicacy, especially moquecas — a preparation of fish in coconut milk.
Other local delicacies include: pasoca — pound form of meat mixed with cassava meal; galinha a cabidela — chicken cooked in a stew form; and cartola — a dessert which is a combination of deep fried bananas served with melted cheese and cinnamon.
