The Paços do Concelho is one of the oldest secular buildings on São Miguel — a low, two-storey arcaded structure in dark volcanic basalt and whitewashed stone, with a clock tower over the central arch and the municipal coat of arms above. It still houses the local council, but the ground-floor arcade and the small square in front are public.
It is a quick stop rather than a sit-down sight, but it anchors the historic centre. From the square you can see down to the river and across to the parish church — a useful five-minute orientation walk if you have just arrived in town.