Local products and handcrafts of Pico Island, Azores
Pico Island is also a hub for unique local products and handcrafts that reflect its rich history and natural resources. From the fine artistry of crochet lace to intricate scrimshaw carvings made from whale teeth, Pico’s craftsmanship is a testament to the island’s maritime heritage and agricultural roots. Here’s a closer look at the distinctive products and handcrafts you’ll find on Pico Island.
Verdelho wine: Pico’s iconic product
The verdelho grape thrives in the island’s unique volcanic soil, which is protected by traditional stone walls called “currais” to shield the vines from the wind and sea. The result is a dry white wine with a rich, honeyed flavor that has been appreciated internationally for centuries, even making its way to the tables of Russian Czars.
Today, the verdelho vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage site, is part of the island’s rich gastronomy, and wine production remains a significant part of Pico’s economy. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours in the island’s wine cellars. Another activity is exploring the historic vineyards in places like Lajido, Madalena, and Cabrito.
Crochet lace and textile arts
The women of Pico have long been known for their skillful crochet lace work, which ranges from traditional designs passed down through generations to more modern patterns. This fine lacework is often used to create tablecloths, doilies, and decorative items, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail of Pico’s artisans.
In addition to lace, the women of Pico produce straw hats and rush mats, handwoven from locally sourced materials. These items, both practical and beautiful, reflect the island’s agricultural lifestyle and the resourcefulness of its people. The straw hats, for example, are both functional for shielding from the sun and a charming souvenir for visitors.
Scrimshaw: a whaling Azores legacy
Pico’s connection to the whaling industry, which thrived from the 18th to the 20th century, gave rise to one of the island’s most unique handcrafts: scrimshaw. This delicate art form, brought over by American whalers, involves etching and carving intricate designs into the teeth and bones of sperm whales. The themes of these carvings often depict sailing ships, battles with whales, and feminine figures—imagery that evokes the life of a mariner.
Scrimshaw pieces, while small, are highly valuable and showcase the fine craftsmanship of Pico’s artisans. In addition to traditional scrimshaw, whale bones, teeth, and jaws are also used to create small sculptures, pendants, rings, and earrings, all inspired by the ocean and its creatures. These works of art not only celebrate the island’s whaling heritage but also highlight the creativity and skill of its craftsmen.
Miniature whaling boats
Another product deeply tied to Pico’s whaling past is the creation of miniature whaling boats. These delicate models, often made by former whalers themselves, are intricate replicas of the elegant and fast-moving boats that once set sail in pursuit of sperm whales. These miniatures are highly detailed and are often displayed in museums, but they are also popular among collectors and maritime enthusiasts.
Each boat is a testament to the craftsmanship of Pico’s whalers, who took pride in their work both on and off the water. The tradition of building these miniature boats continues today, preserving an important part of Pico’s history.
Handcrafted souvenirs and products
In addition to the island’s specialized crafts, Pico offers a variety of handcrafted souvenirs made from local materials. These include wood carvings, pottery, and artisanal items that reflect the island’s culture and traditions. Visitors can purchase these souvenirs at local markets, artisan shops, and cooperatives, supporting the island’s skilled craftsmen and preserving Pico’s artisanal heritage.
See and buy these products firsthand during our tours. In addition to these beautiful products, there is much more to do and see on this magnificent island.