Today we decided to get a closer look at our home away from home.
Located on a large slope facing the Atlantic and shaped like a natural amphitheatre, Funchal is Madeira’s largest tourist, commercial and cultural centre. Elevated to city status on 21 August 1508 by the royal charter of King Manuel I, the History of this archipelago’s capital spans several centuries of traditions, culture and European cosmopolitanism. All without losing its connection with the exuberant Nature that surrounds it.
The town is named after a sweet-smelling wild herb, traditionally known as fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare), which was abundant here when the settlement was created. Later, several excellent regional products, such as sugar or wine (icons incorporated in the municipal coat of arms and are still Madeiran ex-libris today), proved crucial to the local economy, turning Funchal into a key trading point in the centre of the Atlantic.
We found some more painted doors out of the old town.
There’s another monster sized ship in town so it’s very very busy.
Walked up these rocky steps and came upon a few beautiful parks with unique trees, with a few flowering beauties.
Even had some time to sit on the bench and enjoy peace & quiet
Even checked on some locals…
Found a nice cafe in the park for lunch. After a treat at Nata 7
And a latte at Studio Coffee
Tomorrow we’re going to hike a lavada and see if we can see some early morning fog at Fanal Forest.
