Madeira is the island of the eternal spring. This place became a well-known European resort yet in the XIX century. Madeira is a place where celebrities, lords and kings come to have some rest.
The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean. Its distance from Madeira to mainland Europe (Portugal is the closet one) is about 1000 km. The distance to Africa is around 700 km. The person who had discovered Madeira was Joao Goncalves Zarco. In 1419 he landed on this island while escaping from a huge storm. In those days the island was completely covered by impenetrable forests and this fact gave the name to the island as "Madeira" means "a tree, a forest". Near this island are located other islands of the archipelago - Porto Santo and several wild uninhabited islands like Selvagens and Desertas. Both islands are turned into nature reserves.
The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean. Its distance from Madeira to mainland Europe (Portugal is the closet one) is about 1000 km. The distance to Africa is around 700 km. The person who had discovered Madeira was Joao Goncalves Zarco. In 1419 he landed on this island while escaping from a huge storm. In those days the island was completely covered by impenetrable forests and this fact gave the name to the island as "Madeira" means "a tree, a forest". Near this island are located other islands of the archipelago - Porto Santo and several wild uninhabited islands like Selvagens and Desertas. Both islands are turned into nature reserves.
The cultural life of Madeira is rich in different events. The fests and exciting events are held there almost every month. Most of the travelers prefer visiting the resort on the eve of New … Open
Funchal is the capital of Madeira and an interesting place with numerous fascinating attractions like Se Cathedral made of lava with the ceiling inlaid with ivory and wood, Franciscan Monastery, the Santa Clara Church and the famous botanical gardens. The main attractions of the city include popular carnivals, the festival of the Atlantic Ocean and Columbus, the holiday of flowers and wine, as well as water rides along livada channels.
Every city of Madeira features plenty of unique landmarks and sights. To fully embrace the beauty and cultural traditions of the island the travelers should take a general sightseeing tour … Open
An important cultural center for the island is the Quinta das Cruzes Museum. Its location is an ancient mansion, which hundreds of years ago, belonged to the discoverer of Madeira João Goncalves Zarco. Among the exhibits of this museum are the most interesting collections of antique furniture, porcelain dishes and works of art. Here you can see some of the belongings of the former owners of the mansion. Another interesting feature of the museum is the surrounding lush garden. It has many exotic plants and flowers, among which are preserved, ancient sculptures and decorative elements.
Madeira is a perfect destination for eco-tourists. The island boasts the natural attractions and it will be of great interest for the fans of beach recreation. Though the shore of the island … Open
For travelers who want to get acquainted with the life of the islanders, it will be interesting to visit the miniature village of Curral das Freiras. It was founded in the 16th century. It was in this village, that the local nuns sought refuge from pirates and conquerors. Now the village attracts with its distinctive atmosphere. Beautiful old houses are preserved in it, and a church, on the square in front of which, a wonderful farmer's market functions every Sunday.