Horta is a colourful small port on Faial Island, one of the nine volcanic islands that make up the Azores. Taking its name from the Dutch explorer Josse van Huerter who first settled there in 1467, Horta became a convenient stop over for transatlantic journeys thanks to its location in the North Atlantic. Spanish and Portuguese governance over the years has left a European influence on Horta with many fine examples of ornate and beautiful churches scattered around the area. Other remnants of Horta’s colourful past include the Torre do Relógio Clock Tower and the 16th century Forte de Santa Cruz.