In the 1960s, this house was without doubt one of the most prosperous in Lajes do Pico — it belonged to Mr Flores, the last director of the whaling factory.
The “modern” architecture of the period, its location above the village, and its interior comforts (bathroom, electricity) made it a unique residence and the symbol of a lucrative trade.
The 1970s marked the decline of the whaling industry, and Mr Flores was unfortunately unable to enjoy his home for long. The SIBIL factory closed its doors for good, and Mr Flores found himself unable to cover the upkeep of the house.
He emigrated to America in search of better economic prospects, but never returned... in the end he enjoyed only briefly the fruits of a lifetime's work.
The house stood empty for a long time, then was rented out to relatives or visiting teachers. It has stood abandoned since 2004; Mr Flores's daughter has now decided to part with it, her life now settled in California near her grandchildren.
The house was renovated in 2010. A solar water heater was installed there as an experiment.
The house faces the sea and Pico mountain, and is set off by a small garden. Endemic and native species grow there: Urze-bruyère (Erica azorica), Faia da terra-beech (Myrica faya), Pau branco (Picconia azorica), Cedro do Mato-juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), Azevinho-holly (Ilex spirado azorica), Sanguinho-Azores buckthorn (Frangula azorica).
You will also find a small kitchen and a “barbecue” corner at your disposal.
