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✅ Did D. António, Prior of Crato, ever govern the Portuguese/Azorean territory?

Following the dynastic crisis, although D. António, Prior of Crato, was acclaimed king in several cities of the Kingdom, the fact is that he had little time to savor this moment of glory. Shortly after, Spanish forces imposed the law of the strongest in the Battle of Alcântara.

D. António had no choice but to go into exile and seek external support to keep his cause alive. Meanwhile, the Azores (some islands) remained the last stronghold of resistance against Philip II's rule, staying loyal to D. António. In other words, for the people of Terceira, the Prior of Crato was the rightful heir to the throne of Portugal and the only candidate recognized as king.

After the naval defeat at Vila Franca do Campo, or rather, on the eve of the battle, D. António traveled to Terceira Island. Despite everything, he was warmly received and stayed there for about three months. During this time, he took significant initiatives, such as minting coins to fulfill commitments, especially with French and English ships anchored in the bay. This act held special significance, as coinage had been a prerogative of royalty since the early days of the Portuguese nation—clear evidence that D. António was acting as a king, despite his constrained circumstances.

He also ordered the release of many political prisoners.

However, as winter approached, fearing he would be trapped on Terceira Island and left at the mercy of Philip II's forces, who could attempt to seize the rebel island at any moment, D. António began preparations to leave. In October 1582, he once again went into exile, this time never to return.

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