Funchal
Funchal is the capital of Madeira Autonomous Region, being the ninth most populated town in all Portugal. This town is 76,25 km2 and has around 100 000 inhabitants. It subdivides itself into 10 parishes.
Between 1452 and 1454, Funchal obtained the first charter, thus becoming a village and the head of the council. In 1508 it was named as a town and that is why in 2008 the 500. Anniversary will be commemorated.
Within its architectonical patrimony, one should distinguish the following buildings: Santa Clara Church and Monastery, São Lourenço Palace, the Sé Cathedral, which has one of the most beautiful ceilings in all Portugal made with local wood, the Episcopal Palace, the Regional Government Palace, Funchal City Hall, Baltazar Dias Theatre, The Cruzes Museum, the Municipal Museum and the Sacred Art Museum, among others.
In this council, the tertiary activity is a predominant one, highly connected to tourism, being followed by the secondary one.
Funchal port is an important and relevant touristic centre to all European cruises, having been the first stop of Queen Mary II on its inaugural trip.
Useful Information
Hour
Winter: GMT+0
Summer: GMT+1
Health
There are 67 health centres spread all over Madeira Island and one in Porto Santo. In Funchal, there are two public hospitals.
Currency
Euro. The main credit cards are accepted in most commercial establishments, restaurants and hotels.
Commerce
Commerce is open from 9am to 13pm and from 15pm to 19pm, from Monday to Friday. On Saturday from 9am to 13pm. Some shopping centres are open during all days of the week, from 9am to 23pm.
Shopping Center DolceVita Funchal

Forum Madeira

Madeira Shopping

Market of Lavradores

Traditional and handmade commerce
For further information click here
Seaside Areas
The most important are: Barreirinha swimming pool complex, Lido swimming pool complex , Praia do Gorgulho, Ponta Gorda e Poças do Governador swimming pool complex, Doca do Cavacas swimming pool complex, Praia Formosa swimming complex, Praia dos Namorados, Praia do Areeiro and Clube Naval do Funchal.
Clube Naval do Funchal

Clube Balnear da Barreirinha
Calheta’s Beach
