Horta is the ancestral home of many Fremont residents of Portuguese heritage.

 

Located in the Atlantic Ocean about two hours flying time from Lisbon, Portugal, the Azores are comprised of nine volcanic islands which served as way stations for whaling fleets in the 1700's. As the whaling industry waned, the inhabitants turned to farming, and many emigrated to the United States.

Horta, located on the island of Faial, is a popular tourist destination for many Europeans and is an international yacht harbor. A number of local citizens have represented Fremont in visits to Horta and the Mayors of Horta have visited Fremont. Horta became a sister city in 1987.