The Capital: culture, nature and cosmopolitanism
Located on an extensive slope facing the Atlantic, in the shape of a natural amphitheatre, Funchal is the largest tourist, commercial and cultural center in Madeira. Having been elevated to city status on August 21, 1508, by royal charter from D. Manuel I, the history of the capital of this archipelago already encompasses several centuries of traditions, culture and European cosmopolitanism. This, without losing its connection with the exuberant Nature that surrounds it.
The city was named after a sweet-smelling wild herb, traditionally known as fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare), which existed abundantly here at the time of its settlement. Subsequently, some regional products of excellence, such as sugar or wine (icons incorporated in the municipal coat of arms, still ex-libris of Madeira today), proved to be fundamental for the local economy, making Funchal a fundamental point of commerce in the center of the Atlantic. .
The municipality, with an area of 76.15 km², is made up 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. In Throughout the territory, there are numerous historical monuments, museums, leisure spaces, lush gardens and viewpoints. Discover Funchal!