Discovery and Settlement of the Azores: Assumptions Regarding Medieval Viking Presence on the Archipelago

The Azores were officially discovered and colonised by the Portuguese in the mid-15th century. Contemporary sources describe the islands as empty when discovered. However, various types of new evidence have led scholars to doubt the traditional narrative. This paper will examine available sources regarding pre-Portuguese presence in the Azores. The focus will be on possible Viking activity on the archipelago. To examine the research question, various types of source material will be discussed. Archaeological sources on the topic include various types of rock formations (e.g. artificial depressions, megalithic structures, rock carvings, Maroiços), but also previously excavated materials. Additionally, recent biological findings (e.g. mouse genetics, palaeoecological surveys), which suggest pre-Portuguese human activity, will be analysed. Since previous research has not yet included available historical sources, this study aims to do so and shed new light on the matter from a historical perspective. Findings suggest that pre-Portuguese activity has likely taken place on various occasions stretching from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. The possibility of knowledge transfer concerning the islands’ positions from Antiquity to the High Middle Ages is discussed. Assumptions of Viking presence could only be corroborated concerning the Island of São Miguel.