Funchal
Located on a vast hillside facing the Atlantic and shaped into a natural amphitheatre, Funchal stands out as the main tourist, commercial and cultural centre of Madeira. Elevated to city status on August 21, 1508 by order of King Manuel I, the capital of this archipelago has a long history full of European traditions, culture and influences, always maintaining a close connection with the exuberant nature that surrounds it.
The name of the city comes from an aromatic plant, known as fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare), which grew in abundance at the time of its settlement. Over time, high-quality regional products such as sugar and wine, both depicted on the city's coat of arms, have played a crucial role in the local economy, transforming Funchal into an important commercial centre on the Atlantic.
With an area of 76.15 km², the municipality of Funchal is composed of ten parishes: Imaculado Coração de Maria, Monte, Santa Luzia, Santa Maria Maior, Santo António, São Gonçalo, São Martinho, São Pedro, São Roque and Sé. Throughout the county, there are numerous historical monuments, museums, leisure spaces, lush gardens and viewpoints. Explore Funchal!
