The Forgotten Monte Railway of Madeira
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 da Luta at around 850 m above sea level (Source). Designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, it was first proposed in 1886 and formally approved in 1891.
Construction and Operation
Service began on 16 July 1893, initially between Pombal and Levada de Santa Luzia. A few months later, in August 1894, it extended to Atalhinho. Finally, by July 1912, it reached Terreiro da Luta, completing the full route. The railway used Riggenbach rack system, Belgian and German-built locomotives, and could transport passengers in just five minutes at first, for 80 réis fare.
Decline and Closure
Despite early success, the railway suffered after two major accidents. In September 1919, a locomotive boiler exploded, killing four and injuring many. Afterward, a derailment in 1932 further damaged public confidence. With tourism declining during World War II and deteriorating equipment, the railway could not be sustained. It ceased operations in April 1943, and assets were sold or scrapped shortly after.
Legacy and Remnants
Today, nothing remains of the tracks or rolling stock, but the old stations survive. The Monte station at Largo da Fonte now houses a Monte Railway Interpretive Centre, showcasing artefacts, photographs, and documents from its history. Funchal’s municipal government is planning to restore it into a cultural hub with an auditorium, exhibition space, and tourist office.
Replacement by Modern Transport
In 2000, the Funchal Cable Car was inaugurated. Though not on the same route, it connects central Funchal to Monte in about 15 minutes over 3.17 km, rising 560 m, offering scenic views from its cabins.
Why It Matters
The Monte Railway was Madeira’s first passenger railway, a bold engineering feat of its era. It helped to open Monte as a tourist and health resort, attracting wealthy visitors and local residents alike. Its tragic downfall speaks to early challenges of safety, finance, and evolving transport modes.
Visit Today: What to See
- Monte Railway Interpretive Centre at Largo da Fonte features original locomotive lanterns, tickets, and memorabilia.
- Soon restored station building, soon hosting cultural events and local exhibits.
- Nearby the Terreiro da Luta sanctuary and panoramic views where the top station once stood.
The Monte Railway may no longer exist, but its memory lives on through Funchal’s restored stations and heritage centre. Understanding its route and story helps us appreciate Madeira’s early progress and changing transport culture. For more information about the various transportation means, please have a look here.
