Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic, far off the northeastern coast of Brazil. Its steep shores and isolated position made it a conspicuous landmark for ships crossing the ocean. The main island and its smaller neighbours offered water, food and timber to passing vessels.

A Portuguese expedition reached the islands in 1503, and they were granted as a captaincy to the merchant Fernão de Loronha. Dutch and French visitors later used or occupied the archipelago. After a brief French occupation, Portugal retook it in 1737 through the captaincy of Pernambuco. The new occupation included the settlement of Vila dos Remédios and a chain of defensive positions. Fortifications and settlements were established on the main island, which also became a place of confinement for prisoners.