In this category you will find contributions regarding Madeira’s discovery, development and general history. But we also deep dive some historical specificities and celebrations. Especially Madeira’s history as it relates to wine and wine varieties, but also sugar and alcohol production, are given special attention. We also have a look at some…let’s say….’unique‘…historic means of transportation on the island.
Christopher Columbus in Madeira and Porto Santo: History and Global Impact Christopher Columbus is often remembered for discovering the New World. But long before his Atlantic voyage, he lived on the Portuguese islands of Madeira and Porto Santo. These islands were key in shaping his knowledge of the sea and trade. In this article, we …
Furnas do Cavalum: The Mystery That Haunts Machico Where Legend Meets Lava The Furnas do Cavalum sit above Machico, on Madeira’s east coast. The caves are lava tubes carved by ancient flows. Locals linked them to a fearsome demon called Cavalum. The story still shapes the site’s aura today. What Exactly Are the Furnas? The …
Arraial do Senhor Bom Jesus da Ponta Delgada Bom Jesus de Ponta Delgada is one of the oldest and most popular pilgrimages in Madeira together with the Arraial of Monte. The Arraial de Bom Jesus is one of the largest and most famous festivals in Madeira. It always takes place on the first weekend of …
The Forgotten Monte Railway of Madeira: Funchal to Monte A Historic Journey That No Longer Exists The Monte Railway, officially known as Caminho de Ferro do Monte, linked Funchal’s Pombal district to Terreiro da Luta in Monte. This rack railway ran 3.9 km uphill and was built in stages between 1893 and 1912. It reached Terreiro …
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is a destination that blends natural beauty, rich history, and cultural charm. This coastal city offers visitors a plethora of experiences, making it a must-visit location for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Explore the Historic Old Town Wander through Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha) to immerse yourself in its …
Madeira Island, renowned for its lush landscapes and rich culture, has been a cherished destination for Portuguese royalty. Over the centuries, monarchs and their descendants have left a lasting impression on this Atlantic gem. Dom João VI: Paving the Way for Madeira’s Prosperity Although Dom João VI never visited Madeira, his reign (1816–1826) had a …
Christmas is a time that brings people together, filled with joy, love, and goodwill. While it has deep religious roots, the spirit of Christmas extends far beyond religion, touching the hearts of people from all walks of life. For many, Christmas is a celebration of togetherness, kindness, and generosity. The spirit of Christmas is about …
Paul Langerhans, a renowned German scientist, found a peaceful refuge on Madeira Island during his final years. His remarkable work in biology and medicine left a lasting legacy, and his connection to Madeira adds depth to the island’s history. Who Was Paul Langerhans? Born in Berlin in 1847, Paul Langerhans is best known for his …
Winston Churchill’s Visits to Madeira: A Journey of Reflection and Art Winston Churchill, the iconic British Prime Minister known for his leadership during World War II, made two notable visits to the enchanting Portuguese island of Madeira. Both visits, though separated by over half a century, provided him with opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and artistic …
Horácio Bento de Gouveia stands as one of the most influential literary figures to emerge from the beautiful island of Madeira. His works have left an indelible mark on Portuguese literature, capturing the essence of Madeira’s landscapes, people, and culture. In this blog post, we will explore the life, work, and legacy of this celebrated …
The Island’s Rich History of Regal Visits Madeira, a stunning Portuguese island known for its lush landscapes and year-round pleasant climate, has long been a favored destination for travelers. Among these visitors are some of the world’s most illustrious royals. From European monarchs to members of royal families across the globe, Madeira’s charm has drawn …
