The five centuries of history of the village of Maia evoke the historical and cultural heritage of Ribeira Grande, S. Miguel and of the Azores. “These are the experiences of men, whether on land and sea, of a village that stands for its ideas of freedom, that acknowledges and honours its traditions,” which dignifies the history and cultural experiences of the archipelago.

These were the words that the Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures addressed to the people of Maia on Thursday night at the opening ceremony of the new clock bell of the village church, which also marked the beginning of the local festivities with the opening of the light decorations of the church and the grounds.

José Contente greeted, on behalf of the President of the Government, the village that history has been built for over five centuries. The Secretary praised the commitment and dedication of Maia, highlighting the contribution provided by the President of the Village Council and his staff as well as by the parish.  “For the hard work that they have done in this community, I praise all those who dedicate themselves to the village of Maia and who work towards the development and interests of Maia every day,” added José Contente. 

The Regional Secretary conveyed the Regional Government’s satisfaction for participating in the celebration of 500th anniversary of that village, which also marks the beginning the village’s major festivities that gather dozens of emigrants every year. 

José Contente urged the community to unite and fight for the development of Maia, stressing that “it is worth this affection for the land, it is worth fighting over for the common good and it is also worth counting on the support of local, municipal, governmental and parish organisations and of all those who strive for the well-being and progress of the community on a daily basis.”

The village of Maia was named after its founder, a woman named Inês Maia, who apparently came from a village of the same name in Northern Portugal. The territory where Maia is located consists of a volcanic “fajã” (platform) that was formed about ten thousand years ago.