Portugal> Destinations

Madeira

Madeira is a sovereign archipelago of Portugal, located in the north Atlantic Ocean. In Roman times the Madeira islands were known as the Purple Islands. They are of volcanic origin. Portuguese navigators came upon them in the 15th century and they came under the rule of Portugal in 1418. The archipelago consists of six islands and two islets. The islands are Madeira, Bugio, Selvagem Grande, Selvagem Pequena, Deserta Grande and Porto Santo. The islets are Fora and Chao. Madeira and Porto Santo are the only populated islands.

Madeira archipelago has a total area of 797 sq. km, around 250 000 residents and eleven town councils. The islands' peak is Pico Ruivo at Madeira island with an altitude of 1862 km.

The archipelago is 540 miles away from Lisbon and 360 miles away from the African coast. It draws many tourists in all seasons of the year and is internationally renowned for its traditional Madeira wine, mild climate, amazing landscapes, crafts and wondrous wildlife. The official language is Portuguese. The capital city is Funchal. Its name is derived from funcho or fennel, which was often found in the area. The surroundings of Funchal are absolutely unique and naturally sheltered, which is why this site was the first one to be settled. The population of Funchal exceeds 100 000. Se Cathedral is the undisputed prime landmark. Its construction commenced in 1493, and the building was completed in 1514.

Madeira is the biggest of the islands by far with an area of 741 sq.km. It is divided by a mountain range with an average elevation of 1220 metres. The island's endemic laurisilva woods are on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Sadly there is very little left of them. Madeira is considered a subtropical island with a perfect mild climate. The islands were discovered back in prehistoric times. It has been ascertained that the Phoenicians knew of the archipelago. It was settled by the Portuguese in the 1430s. The islands were indicated on a map in 1433. Portugal granted the right to self-government to Madeira in 1976.

Madeira is famous for its aqueducts, or levadas in Portuguese. These were built on a large scale in the 1500s with the purpose to carry water to farming areas. Today the levadas extend over 1350 miles. They are frequently used as hiking and walking paths. Levada do Canical offers a refreshing, relaxing walk. It is also referred to as mimosa levada since the route is lined with mimosas.

The islands are served by the airports of Vila Baleira and Santa Cruz, in Porto Santo and Madeira respectively. Excellent transport infrastructure is available. A popular annual event here is the Carnival. It will be held over three days in late February of this year. It entails a lively parade, folk traditions and customs, music and an all-around great experience. There are many landmarks and attractions in Madeira. Be sure to visit Monte and the Sacred Art Museum. Monte is a charming historic district, featuring some of the most gorgeous ancient palaces in the world. The Sacred Art Museum was established in 1955 and stands in what was the Bishop's Palace earlier. It offers impressive displays of religious sculptures, gold objects and other art works. Most of these items were received from chapels and private donations.

Madeira offers a large number of fun activities, like guided tours, nautical sports, fishing and many more.