Geography

The archipelago of Fernando de Noronha is formed by 21 islands, with a total area of 26 km2. The main island is also called Fernando de Noronha, has 17 km2 and is the only inhabited island. It is located slightly under the Ecuator line, 360km from Natal and 550km from Recife, cities to which it is connected by several daily flights. There is no marine passanger transportation to the island, except sometimes for the arrival of a cruise ship.

The islands of Fernando de Noronha are the top of a volcanic mountain whose base lies 4000m (over 13000ft) below the surface. However, there is no volcanic activity in this region.

The name from the archipelago comes from Fernan de Loronha, a Portuguese who received rights over it in 1504. In distint occasions, it has been occupied by the French and the Dutch. To impede the return of the invaders, the Portuguese built ten forts on the main possible landing sites. It was from this time that the island started to be used as a prison, a usage adopted until some decades ago. Administrativelly, today it is part of the State of Pernambuco. Previously, as a territory, it has been subordinated to the Armed Forces.

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Last updated on 13/12/1999