Funchal

Initially covered by dense forests, the island was cleared for cultivation. Funchal, which takes its name from the abundance of fennel (funcho) in the area, became an important agricultural centre.

The city was officially founded in 1424 and quickly became the main port and economic hub of Madeira. Its strategic location in the Atlantic made Funchal a crucial stopover for trade routes between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. During the 15th century, sugar cane cultivation thrived, transforming Funchal into one of Europe’s largest sugar exporters. Merchants and bankers, particularly from Italy and Flanders, settled in the city, bringing wealth and influencing its architecture and culture.

In the 20th century, Funchal continued to grow and modernise. During World War II, due to its strategic geographic location, Madeira remained neutral, hosting several European refugees. After the conflict, tourism became one of the city’s main economic drivers. This was further solidified by the opening of Madeira International Airport in 1964, making the island more accessible.

Today, Funchal is a modern city that preserves its historical heritage. With a cosmopolitan atmosphere and well-developed tourism infrastructure, it remains a cultural and economic reference point in Madeira. The historic centre retains many of its old cobbled streets, centuries-old churches, and buildings with colonial-style façades.

Main Points of Interest

CR7 Museum

The CR7 Museum, in Funchal, Madeira, is dedicated to the life and career of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. It showcases a large collection of his personal trophies, including Ballon d’Or awards and Golden Boots. Visitors can explore photographs, videos, and memorabilia highlighting key moments of Ronaldo’s journey. The museum provides insight into his achievements and connection to his hometown. It’s a must-visit for fans.

Museum of Sacred Art

Located in a former 17th-century palace, it showcases an impressive collection of religious art, with a focus on silverware and Flemish paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Quinta das Cruzes Museum

This museum houses a diverse collection of decorative arts and artefacts related to Madeira’s history, set in a historic estate with beautiful gardens.

Funchal Cathedral (Sé)

A 16th-century architectural landmark, the cathedral is one of the city’s most important buildings, featuring a cedar wood ceiling and gilded woodwork.

Church of the College

Built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, this religious monument boasts an impressive Baroque façade and a richly decorated interior with tiles and paintings.

Regional Public Library

Housed in a historic building, this library offers a vast collection of books and documents on the history of Madeira, as well as hosting cultural exhibitions and events.

Fort of São Tiago

Built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks, the fort now houses the Madeira Contemporary Art Museum and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Palace of São Lourenço

A former military fortress, it now serves as the official residence of the Representative of the Republic for Madeira. Guided tours allow visitors to explore the history and architecture of this important building.

Recommended Restaurants

Funchal offers a variety of restaurants ranging from traditional Madeiran cuisine to international dishes.

Armazém do Sal: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and dishes made with local ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a Madeiran dining experience with a contemporary twist.

Il Gallo D’Oro: Holding two Michelin stars, this restaurant offers a high-quality culinary experience, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Casa Madeirense: Perfect for those wanting to sample traditional dishes like espetada (grilled beef skewers) and black scabbardfish, in a rustic and authentic setting.

Festivities

Funchal hosts various festivals throughout the year that attract visitors from all over the world.

Flower Festival (April/May): Celebrating the arrival of spring, the festival features parades of flower-adorned floats, live music, and the creation of the “Wall of Hope” by children.

Madeira Wine Festival (August/September): A cultural event celebrating the island’s wine production, with tastings, performances, and reenactments of the traditional grape harvest.

New Year’s Eve in Funchal (December): The city is famous for its spectacular fireworks display, considered one of the best in the world. The Christmas lights and markets contribute to the festive atmosphere.

Useful Tips

Funchal has a good public transport system, but exploring the city on foot is highly recommended to appreciate its architecture and landscapes. For more distant areas, such as Monte or Curral das Freiras, the cable car and buses are practical options.

For nature lovers, walking along the levadas (irrigation channels) is a must. These trails offer stunning views of the island’s lush vegetation and the Atlantic Ocean.

Farmers’ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores): This traditional market is the perfect place to taste exotic fruits. It also offers typical Madeiran products, such as honey cake and Madeira wine.

Funchal is a city that combines the best of tradition and modernity. It offers visitors an unforgettable experience through its vibrant culture, natural landscapes, and excellent cuisine.