Madeira islands - Funchal Portugal guide - Heart of a Vagabond Where are the Madeira Islands? Funchal, is located on the Atlantic Ocean, just north of the Spanish Canary Islands. Madeira is an autonomous Portuguese region and part of the European Union. MADEIRA ISLANDS AND FUNCHAL – THINGS TO DO The people of Madeira The famous hospitality of the Portuguese, is not restricted to the continent alone. The Madeirenses (people from Madeira islands) are incredibly friendly, welcoming and love making the tourists feel at home. Because of its geographical location, Madeira developed a strong cultural identity. You’ll notice the typical costumes of the females are very colorful and radiant, resembling the colors of the flowers and nature of the island. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN PORTUGAL Some people think they need to go to far away places to find exotic forests, waterfalls, flowers and animals… Little do they know there are a few spots in Europe where they can find all that! The word “MADEIRA” literally means “WOOD” in Portuguese. It’s an island famous for its beauty and incredible nature. This island’s landscape is absolutely breathtaking, with its dramatic cliffs and rocks..

The macaronesian region is famous for the variety of flowers and flora, similar to the ones found in southern Europe and Africa a million years ago. The breath taking Laurissilva forest is one of the largest and oldest laurel forests in the world! The geographic isolation and relatively mild climate, are propicious for a year round variety of flowers, some of which unique to this region. If you’re a nature lover, take you time to explore the island, take long walks and discover the variety of wild flowers and small animals around. Madeira is also the home of some extremely rare small animals, such as the Madeiran large white butterfly, some vertebrates, lizards, bats and tropical birds. For a deeper interaction with nature and to experience sustainable tourism, book a couple of nights at a “turismo rural” hotel or farm, where you can actually spend time, outside the city of Funchal and feel what the country side looks like. yes, here you’ll find some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe! Madeira islands are wet on the northwest and dry on the southeast, but the waterfalls are very easy to spot if you take a trip around the island.

The waterfalls were actually one of my favorite attractions when visiting the Island with my parents. I was impressed by the size and power of these water falls. Nature lovers can’t miss the chance to go for walks and hiking while visiting the Madeira islands. There are many trails and levels you can choose from and trust me: they’re well worth it! Diving in Madeira is now a increasing popular sport. Thanks to the clear waters and geographic isolation, you won’t find the sort of marine life like in the Andaman Islands for example, but you will actually be surprised by the all the fish you’ll come across. There are several nature and marine reserves and Sao Lourenco is the best spot for this sport. MARKETS AND EXOTIC FRUITS OF FUNCHAL Thanks to its warm climate all year round, Madeira has some of the most delicious tropical fruits in Europe! You can find all sort of tropical fruits in Madeira. They’re fresh and delicious. Vegans and vegetarians will have no problem finding fruits and vegetables for a great price. If you can, avoid the supermarkets and head on to the local vegetable and fruit markets. Did you know that Madeira has the biggest production of bananas in Europe, together with Spain?

The typical bananas from Madeira are smaller than the ones you’re familiar with. They’re called “dwarf bananas” but they’re also famous for being much more tasty than the regular sisters around the world. ENJOY THE WINE IN FUNCHAL Although Oporto is internationally famous for its Port wine , Madeira will surprise you too. Take a tour to the wine cellars in the region and enjoy some wine tasting. The wine here is of high quality and above all, its local. Nothing is more interesting do explore when we travel than the local gastronomy and wine, isn’t it? TRADITIONAL HOUSES OF MADEIRA PORTUGAL For me, as a Portuguese, the Santana houses are one of the most fascinating things about Madeira. Santana means Santa Ana (Saint Anne) and it’s the name of a small village along the northern coast.. When I visited the island with my parents, I have to admit two things grabbed my heart: one was the incredible waterfalls, the second one , the traditional cob houses. They’re Eco-friendly houses, using all sorts of local materials. Their colors remind me of the traditional flowers in the region. These traditional houses are a delight for the eye, but not used by the population anymore.

Unfortunately. Funchal is the capital city of Madeira and the place to go for everything urban. The word Funchal comes from the Portuguese “Funcho”, which means “fennel”. This is the most densely populated city in Madeira and home to some impressive architecture, unique to the region.. If you stay in Funchal, you’ll be able to combine the convenience of the city, with the proximity and easy reach of the nature. Rent a car and you’ll have total mobility to visit every beautiful spot around the island and come back to the city of Funchal to enjoy the night life or a relaxed dinner. NEW YEARS EVE IN FUNCHAL Did you know the firework shows in Funchal are the biggest ones in the world, winning the record by the Guiness world records ? FUNCHAL AND MADEIRA PORTUGAL PRACTICAL INFO: Hostel Santa Maria Located within a traditional and historical building in Funchal old town, Santa Maria Hostel is a boutique hostel featuring a vintage-style décor. With a 24-hour reception, the hostel has a restaurant and the Gin, Wine & Beer Club.

Ranging from dorms to private accommodation, each unit at the Santa Maria is decorated with attention to detail in a very colorful way. Dorm rooms have lockers, individual reading lights and access to shared bathroom facilities. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and guests can use a fully equipped kitchen to prepare other meals. A mezzanine floor encloses the lounge area, with a reading nook, a flat-screen TV and sofas. There is also an outdoor seating area, where guests are welcome to relax. The central location of Santa Maria means guests are a few steps from the lively bar street, and a cable car can also be found within walking distance. The cheapest rates I found among all the online services was Agoda. Book it Here for the lowest prices starting at 15.08€! APARTMENTS Tourist apartments Atlantida This property offers self-catering accommodations with free wired internet and a private balcony in central Funchal. It is a 5 minute drive from Funchal’s local supermarkets and restaurants. All studios and apartments are decorated in warm colors and feature a comfortable armchair and cable TV in the sitting area. Each one has a work desk with good lighting.

All accommodations at Apartamentos Turisticos Atlantida have a kitchenette with microwave, a tea / coffee maker and cabinet space. Some apartments have a 6-seater dining table and separate living room. Book it online from 55€ with the lowest prices Here with Agoda Reids Palace Hotel Set on a cliff in 10 acres of subtropical gardens overlooking the Atlantic, this 5-star resort features an oceanfront spa, 3 swimming pools and direct access to oceanic waters. All rooms at Reid’s Palace are elegantly furnished and include a balcony and marble bathroom with amenities. A minibar with complimentary drinks and free in-room movies are available to each room. Reid’s Palace Spa features indoor and outdoor therapy suites with a private whirlpool. It offers an indulgent menu of treatments using world-class spa brands. Dry and wet saunas are also on site.

For the lowest online rates from 295€ a night, book here with Agoda Share this: Funchal | Define Funchal at Dictionary.com Funchal [Portuguese foo n-shahl] /Portuguese fʊ̃ˈʃɑl/ Spell a seaport in and the capital of the Madeira islands, on SE Madeira: winter resort. Madeira [muh-deer-uh, -dair-uh; for 1, 2, 5 also Portuguese mah-de-ruh] /məˈdɪər ə, -ˈdɛər ə; for 1, 2, 5 also Portuguese mɑˈdɛ rə/ Spell noun 1. a group of eight islands off the NW coast of Africa, part of Portugal. 308 sq. mi. (798 sq. km). Capital: Funchal. the chief island of this group. 286 sq. mi. (741 sq. km). 3. (often lowercase) a rich, strong white or amber wine, resembling sherry, made there. 4. (often lowercase) a similar wine made elsewhere. 5.

a river in W Brazil flowing NE to the Amazon: chief tributary of the Amazon. 2100 miles (3380 km) long. Dictionary.com Unabridged Examples from the Web for Funchal Expand Contemporary Examples He even recently built a museum in his hometown of Funchal, Portugal, that is completely dedicated to himself and his awards. Why It’s Still OK to Hate Sexy Bastard Cristiano Ronaldo After He Saved Team USA Emily Shire June 25, 2014 Historical Examples The calcareous rock is taken in large quantities to Funchal, to be burnt into lime for building purposes. Where the Pavement Ends John Russell Four weekly papers, in the Portuguese95 language, are published at Funchal. British Dictionary definitions for Funchal Expand noun 1. the capital and chief port of the Madeira Islands, on the S coast of Madeira. Pop: 103 962 (2001) Madeira noun 1.

a group of volcanic islands in the N Atlantic, west of Morocco: since 1976 an autonomous region of Portugal; consists of the chief island, Madeira, Porto Santo, and the uninhabited Deserta and Selvagen Islands. Capital: Funchal. Pop: 245 012 (2001). Area: 797 sq km (311 sq miles) 2. a river in W Brazil, flowing northeast to the Amazon below Manaus. Length: 3241 km (2013 miles) 3. a rich strong fortified white wine made on Madeira Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Word Origin and History for Funchal Expand Madeira n.

white wine, 1540s, from island of Madeira in the Atlantic, from Portuguese madeira "wood," because the island formerly was thickly wooded, from Latin materia "wood, matter" (see matter ). Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper Funchal Madeira Islands Photos - Madeira Islands Portugal Map, Europe Maps Portugal Map Information - World Atlas Funchal Madeira Islands Photos - Madeira Islands Portugal Map, Europe Maps Portugal Map Information Funchel, Portugal Funchal is the largest city and capital of Portugal's Madeira Islands, and a major tourism attraction. The approach to Funchal Harbor (by cruise ship) is well documented as one of the two most spectacular in the world, being on a par with Rio de Janeiro. It is quite common to see upwards of four cruise ships in port at any one time. Facing the blue Atlantic with a backdrop of dramatic mountains, this cosmopolitan, rejuvenated city has a perfect climate where flowers bloom all year round. Hotels are plentiful and restaurants serve locally produced Madeira Wine.

The Madeira Islands have a long winemaking history, dating back to the Age of Exploration when Madeira was a standard port of call for ships heading to the New World. Madeira is a fortified Portuguese wine produced in a variety of styles ranging from dry wines which can be consumed on their own as an aperitif, to sweet wines consumed with dessert. In Funchal's Old Town, having lunch or dinner outside is an enjoyable experience. This is an early morning look at Funchal's harbor. Behing the mist and fronting the city are a string of hills that rise into the central mountains. The fort (center right) is the Santiago Fort, built in 1614 to protect Funchal from invaders. In 1767 it was enlarged and exclusively served military purposes until 1992, year in which Madeira's Regional Government decided to use it for cultural activities. Today this fortress accommodates a museum and an excellent restaurant with terrace. Shopping in Funchal's main tourist center is a recommended activity as bargains abound; this is a typical street. Within the shops, colorful fashions, leather products and wine are on display.

Plenty of restaurants and bars offer a great choice of traditional and local fare, and Funchal Market offers a fascinating display of the fresh local produce for sale. If you make your way further into Funchal, the streets get narrower and more elevated as you approach the hills that front the town, and yes, automobiles use these cobblestone streets, and yes, they drive a little bit too fast here if you ask me. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Funchal, which encompasses all of the Autonomous Region of Madeira. The late fifteenth-century cathedral is one of the few structures that survives virtually intact since the early period of colonization of Madeira. The cathedral contains a silver processional cross, donated by King Manuel I of Portugal, considered one of the masterpieces of precious metalwork of Manueline Portugal. Central Funchal is certainly not large, and I was quite surprised to see all of the taxis. Turned out that because of the hiils and low mountains behind the town, many locals use them as a convenient transportation option. Also, there are many resorts in the upper elevations and in high-season, cabs are needed for tourists.

On Madeira Island, there are many unique natural landscapes with areas of indigenous vegetation and volcanic landforms. This is a look at the rugged cliffs on the eastern edge of the island. Funchal, the capital, is but a mile to the west. Funchal travel guide - Wikitravel 11 Contact Funchal is the capital and main city of the autonomous region of Madeira, on the island of Madeira , situated in the south between Santa Cruz and Camara de Lobos cities. The city's name comes from the abundance of fennel (funcho) found on the island. It was an important shipping center during the 15th-17th centuries. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. Get in[ edit ] Funchal Airport ( IATA : FNC) is in nearby Santa Cruz, sometimes known as Madeira international/Santa Catarina/Funchal. Once famous for its hair-raisingly short runway ending at a cliff over the Atlantic Ocean, the airport has been expanded to handle all sizes of aircraft. There are several daily flights from most major cities in Portugal (Lisbon, Porto). Flight time from Lisbon is 1 1/2 hours.

Also, there are good connections from London (mostly Gatwick)(LGW), with TAP/ Air Portugal(TP) and British Airways(BA); its flying time is estimated at 3 1/2 hours. Funchal is served by highway ER101 which runs along the coast. An easy way to get to the city centre by car is to take exit 11 and head downhill towards Funchal. Continue on this road (ER103) until you pass under an overpass. Immediately on your right is a large parking garage (closed on sundays). From here it is only a few minutes walk to Mercado Dos Lavradores / Sé Cathedral. From and to the airport you can take the Aerobus, which runs about 10-14 times a day and stops at all major hotels. Tickets can be purchased at the driver (pay by cash), one-way ticket will cost 5 euro (return 8 euro). Schedule [1] . It takes about 30 minutes to get the center of Funchal. Get around[ edit ] The city centre is small enough to explore on foot.

Orange city buses can take you around and up to Monte (lines 20, 21). Buy a giro card from the office for 2,20€, it is already preloaded with two journeys and can be topped up with additional journeys for 1,50€ a piece. At the bus driver you pay 1,90€ for a ride. Most city buses start from the waterfront area. If you are lucky you can acquire a bus timetable for the local and regional busses starting in Funchal at the tourist information. Timetables and a map are also available [2] . See[ edit ][ add listing ] Jardins Do Palheiro: The Sunken Garden Jardins Do Palheiro (Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro Park), Sao Goncalo, Palheiro (about 5km from downtown), ☎ 351 291 793 044. Mon - Fri from 9:00h - 16:30h. The Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro Park is a typical example of a manor in British colonial style.

While the manor itself is private and can't be visited, you can enjoy the public park. On first sight it looks like an English park, old Platanes form a long alley from the main gate to the gardens. But when you look closer you see all the tropical plants that build the basis, completed by hundreds of plants from al over the world. So around the year there ar always some plants blooming. The main part of the park is formed by several gardens, e.g. a French Garden, a Sunken Garden, the Ladies Garden, a Rose Garden and some more. On the opposite of the main gate is a Tea House, which is connected to the golf course. The serve some good tea, cakes, pastries, snacks and small lunches. The way back to the main gate is formed by the Camellia Avenue, a flourish firework between end October and March. The park is situated on 500m altitude. Between 9 - 11:30 the park is often crowded by bus tourists, choose the afternoon for a more laid-back visit.

Entrance fee 10,50€ Public busses frequently connect Funchal with the park: line 36 or, if you have strong nervs, line 37 for a more spectacular ride. Palheiro Gardens edit Madeira Botanical Gardens (Jardins Botânicos da Madeira), Caminho Meio Quinta do Bom Sucesso (about 3km from downtown). The more than 2000 plants of these hillside gardens, plus the view of Funchal make this one of the major attractions of the whole island. The gardens also feature a collection of parakeets and parrots. edit Market - Mercado Dos Lavradores, Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot, Down Town (Zona Velha). Mon - Thu 7 - 16 h, Fri 7 - 20 h, Sat 7 - 15h, closed on Sundays and holidays. The historic building with an open patio offers on two levels the fresh fruits and vegetables from all over the island. On lower level is also a seperate hall for the fish vendors selling the fresh caught fishes to everybody.

Eat and buy local fruits like the small Madeiran mangos, bananas, philodendres and plenty kinds of maracujas. Taste the offers from vendors. But be carefull, they sometimes try to rip you off and selling you over-ripe fruits or some heavy mangos for the (expensive) price of light maracujas. There are also some nice pastelarias and coffee bars in and around the buliding. Often crowded while rain and when large cruise ships are on the pier. edit Mercado dos Lavradores: In the patio Monte Palace Hotel Gardens. The gardens of this defunct hotel include a Chinese garden, artwork, a small lake, and a variety of flora and fauna. edit Santa Clara Convent (Convento da Santa Clara), Calçada de Santa Clara 15. Dating from the end of the 15th century, this convent, now a national monument, was founded by João Gonçalves da Câmara. The azulejo tiles are especially notable. edit São Lourenço Palace (Palácio de São Lourenço), Avenida Zarco. Half fortress and half palace, this construction is a good example of mannerist architecture.

Highlights include the Noble Salon (Salão Nobre), the Green Room (Sala Verde), the Audience Hall (Sala de Audiências), and the gardens. edit Sé Cathedral. The central point in Funchal, and its most-visited monument. Commissioned by the king Dom Manuel I through Portuguese explorer Gil Eanes, the cathedral was built between 1493 and 1517. The ceiling is made from local wood. edit Sé Cathedral Colegio Church (Igreja de Sao Joao Evangelista), Rua dos Ferreiros, 105, [3] . This Jesuit temple, completed in 1647, is a striking building with a stunning interior. Today it is part of Madeira University. edit Interior of Colegio Church Visit the fair/market; old port; jardim; casino. Enjoy Birdwatching . Palheiro Golf Course, Rua do Balacal 29, [4] . edit Funchal Cable Car (Teleférico do Funchal), Almirante Reis, [5] . 09:30-17:45. View the city from above in a gondola.

The upper station is at Monte, where you can visit the Monte Palace gardens and the church at Monte. Another cable car goes down from this point to the Botanical Gardens. Combination tickets for the ride and attractions are available. edit Madeira Paragliding Adventures (0 - 4200 Ft), Madeira Mountains, [6] . 10:00 - 20:00. Tandem Paragliding flights in Madeira Island! Breathtaking sceneries, brutal landscapes and relaxing moments, sharing the air with eagles and only the sound, of silence! Contact us to schedule and plan your Flight. And to get Amazing, Unique and Exclusive Air Madeira Images. If You want, we can make you a pack, including transportation, Flight and Video for an Unbelievable value edit Madeira Sidecar Tours, ☎ +351 969 691 007 ( info@madeirasidecartours.com ), [7] . edit Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] Flowers & fruit (check with the airline/ship if they can be brought abroad). The island is world-famous for its wines. Several stores offer varying selections.

Consult Wikipedia [8] and other sites for details. Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] Funchal has an abundance of good, if not necessarily cheap, eating places. Most places serve traditional Madeiran and Portuguese food, which is well-prepared and well-tasting, but not terribly exciting. One of the most typical dishes and served almost everywhere, is espada com banana, scabbard fish with banana. It is usually served with fresh salad and potatoes. A bit more expensive, bacalhau (dried, salted codfish) is served in many restaurants. One of the more common, and best, varieties is "bacalhau com natas", codfish in cream sauce. Budget[ edit ] Bar Beer Garden, Estrada Monumental, Arieiro. Recommended dish is Picado (beef steak served with chips). The normal size (10 euros) should be enough for 2 persons. The bigger size (13 euros) could serve 3 - 4 persons. Café Do Museu - Bar and Restaurant, Praca do Munícipio, downtown, . It is located in a former access balcony of the Sacred Museum. They serve sandwiches, steaks and salads in a modern ambient.

While there are Portuguese and tourists for dinner, the bar is crowded at the later evening by young locals. Open Mon - Sat, 10:00 - 02:00 (am) O Castelo Dos Hamburguers, Rua da Carreira, 306, Tel: . This place sells only 3 types of prego-style hamburgers: normal, special and super. Also try their smoothies. [9] Indian House, Rua da Carreira 144, Funchal. Situated at the center, close to the Dolce Vita mall. A variety of vegetarian food. Try the Thali or any of the other combo meals. Good prices. Open Mon - Sat, 10:30 - 22:30. A Bica, Rua do Hospital Velho (On the street above the farmer's market), ☎ 291 221 346. 9 - 23h. One of the best price/quality restaurants in Funchal city. The underground aspect adds to the charm of the place. Great variety of local meat/fish dishes, a recomendation for the traditional "espada com banana". 8.5€.

edit Doca do Cavacas, Estrada Monumental, Ponta de Cruz, Tel: . Fish restaurant. Japanese Restaurant, 2nd floor, Monumental Lido Shopping, Lido. Buffet lunch for 10 euros. Olives - Bar & Restaurant, Rua da Queimada de Cima 47, , Small Restaurant, centrally located in a side road close to the Sé Cathedrale. Small menu with 10 fish and 10 various meat dishes from 10 - 15 EUR. portugese influenced european kitchen. Excellent housewine and other good wines. Nice interieur, friendly staff. Mon - Sat 10 - 24h Splurge[ edit ] Xôpana Restaurant, Choupana Hills Resort and Spa, Tel: (+351) 291 20 6020. Award winning restaurant at the Choupana Hills Resort, with a magnificent view over Funchal and world-class food and wine. Les Faunes, Estrada Monumental 139, In Reid's Palace Hotel, Tel: 291/71-71-71. Top quality French restaurant.

Il Basilico, Rua de Leichlingen 7, ☎ +351 291 708 708 ( ilbasilico@portobay.pt ), [10] . Typical Tuscan cuisine is simply delicious. .. At the Il Basilico restaurant, with its ample terrace, you can taste some of these specialities . .. edit Il Gallo D'oro, The Cliff Bay Hotel Estrada Monumental, 147, ☎ +351 291 707 700, [11] . Everyday, from 08.00 to 10.30 and 19.00 to 22.00. First Michelin Star Restaurant on the island of Madeira • Mediterranean gourmet cuisine • a jacket and tie required for gentlemen • reservation recommended edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Madeira Casino Not the party capital of the world. Most of bars are very quiet. No decent Irish bars. Some think the best bar is Glorias Latino. Bar Amazónia, Rua de São Filipe 19. A pleasant little bar.

edit Café do Teatro, Avenida Arriaga Ed. Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias. edit Chameleon Disco-Bar, Rua Imperatriz D. Amelia Nº119 (in front of the Carlton). Café and bar with a tropical atmosphere. Karaoke on Mondays and Tuesdays, live music on Thursdays, and ladies' night on Sunday. edit FX Bar, Largo das Fontes 39. edit Madeira Casino, [12] . The only casino on the island. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer. edit Vespas, Avenida Sá Carneiro 60. Dance club very popular with young people. edit Budget[ edit ] During low season (winter) prices may drop significantly, e.g., from 50€ to 35€. Time around Christmas is high-season as is Spring with carnival and the flower festival. Phil's Haven Hostel Nice Hostel about 2km from centre of town. Friendly and helpful owner. Free WiFi, kitchen and breakfast. Dorm Beds from 10€ and Private Rooms from 20€ available. or +351 961 099 707.

Apartamentos Sao Paulo and Apartamentos Alegria [13] . Owned by the Mendonza family. Has 2 apartment blocks. Located in the Old Town, close to the English Church & Rua da Carreira. Cheaper rates for weekly stays. Residencial Melba (Melba Pension), Azinhaga da Casa Branca 8. Lies in Western Funchal. 12 rooms. Mid-range[ edit ] Quinta Perestrello Heritage House, Rua Drº Pita nº 3, [14] . A small hotel, One adult 33€ per night and breakfast (special offer low season), 37 double rooms, located near Reid's Palace. 24 hour reception. Hotel Monte Carlo, Calçada da Saude Nr. 10. Beautiful, old hotel with a great view over the city of Funchal. Directly near the Convent St. Clara. Reasonable priced and not directly in a desiganted tourist district. Lots of good and affordable restaurants nearby.

Residencial Zarco, Rua da Alfândega 113, Largo dos Varadouros, 9000-059 Funchal, ☎ +351 291 223 716, [15] . Very nice cheap little hotel with family feeling and excellent location. Prices from 24€ single room and 30€ double/twin room. edit Splurge[ edit ] Pestana Bay, Praia Formosa,9000-247, ☎ +(351) 291701900 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291761694), [16] . edit Pestana Carlton Madeira, Largo António Nobre, nº 1, 9004-531, ☎ +(351) 291239500 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291223377), [17] .

edit Pestana Casino Park, Quinta Vigia Funchal,9004-513, ☎ +(351) 291209100 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291232076), [18] . edit Pestana Grand, Rua Ponta da Cruz, 23 - São Martinho, 9000-103, ☎ +(351) 291707400 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291761024), [19] . edit Pestana Miramar, Estrada Monumental, 182/194, 9000-098, ☎ +(351) 291706100 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291763988), [20] .

edit Pestana Palms, Rua do Gorgulho, 17, 9000-107, ☎ +(351) 291709200 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291766247), [21] . edit Pestana Promenade, Rua Francisco de Sousa Nº1, 9000-001, ☎ +(351) 291141400 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291762082), [22] . edit Pestana Village, Estrada Monumental, 182/194, 9000-098, ☎ +(351) 291701600 ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 291765727), [23] .

edit Choupana Hills Resort, Travessa do Largo da Choupana, , [24] . One of the top hotels in Madeira just outside Funchal. Porto Santa Maria, Avenida do Mar e das Comunidades Madeirenses, 50, ☎ +351 291 206700, [25] . Porto Santo Maria lies at the water's edge in the very heart of Funchal's old centre.. A lovely 4 star hotel offering 146 rooms, restaurant, bars with terrace, direct access to the promenade, outdoor pool, indoor pool, SPA, gym, parking all in the heart of the city. edit Hotel Porto Mare, Rua Simplício Passos Gouveia, 21, ☎ +351 291 703700, [26] . The 4 star Porto Mare hotel occupies the central wing of the Vila Porto Mare resort and benefits from the use of all its facilities.

edit Suite Hotel Eden Mar, Rua do Gorgulho, 2, ☎ +351 291 709700, [27] . The 4 star Suite Hotel Eden Mar is the place to put yourself in tune with nature and enjoy your time in the exuberance of the surroundings. Feel yourself merging with the Atlantic Ocean and experience the lusciousness of the tropical gardens. edit The Residence, Rua de Leichlingen, 7, ☎ +351 291 708700, [28] . The 4 star The Residence is occupying the west wing of the Vila Porto Mare resort, The Residence enjoys the use of all its facilities and a real sense of community. Four restaurants, five bars, five pools, SPA,sports and children's facilities. edit Stay safe[ edit ] Funchal is usually a very safe city. However, as in any other places you go, common sense is required. Probably the unsafest place to go in Funchal is Zona Velha (near the cable car) at night, because it usually gets very crowded because of the nightlife.

Of course crowded places don't mean you'll get robbed, but be careful as sometimes there are pickpockets there. Beware the pickpockets there and don't go to abandoned dark alleys. Get out[ edit ] Porto Santo - A wonderful quiet beach community, Porto Santo is a small island on the North-East of Madeira can be reached by either boat or plane. It is well worth a visit for it's nice small restaurants, it's long beach, and the Christopher Columbus house. Contact[ edit ] Internet Access - In Funchal there exists a public free wifi sponsored by the Madeiran government. You'll find a 2m tall white and blue board on several places and squares telling you that wifi is available here. Above that, some bars and cafés offer internet access too. Some spots are here: Praca do Municipio, Avenida Arriaga (2 x around the Golden Gate Café and the Cathedrale), Praca de Colombo and 3 or 4 more places Post Office - You barely get stamps at the vendors selling postcards.

A post office (CTT Correios) is located near the Cathedrale in the Avenida Zarco and the Rua Calouste Gulbekian near the Casino. Postcards to EU countries are 0,68€ (Oct 2010) funchal - 必应 Sign in Funchal Funchal (Portuguese pronunciation: [fũˈʃaɫ]) is the largest city, the municipal seat and the capital of Portugal's Autonomous Region of Madeira. The city has a population of 111,892, making it the 6th largest city in Portugal, and has been the capital of Madeira for more than five centuries. Because of its high cultural and historical value, Funchal is one of Portugal's main tourist attractions. It is also popular as a destination for New Year's Eve, and it is the leading Portuguese port on cruise liner dockings. The name is from the Portuguese word "funcho" (fennel) and the suffix "-al", to denote "a plantation of fennel".

Funchal Etymology The name Funchal, was applied by the first settlers that landed on its shores due to the abundance of wild fennel where, as tradition goes, the primitive burg was built. From the Portuguese word "funcho" (fennel) and the suffix "-al", to denote "a plantation of fennel": "...Funchal, to whom the captain gave this name, because it was founded in a beautiful forested valley, full of fennel up to the sea..." — Gaspar Frutuoso, 1873,[citation needed] Funchal History This settlement began around 1424, when the island was divided into two captaincies, and the zones that would become the urbanized core of Funchal would be founded by João Gonçalves Zarco who settled there with members of his family. Owing to its geographic location, the site became an important maritime port, whereas its productive soils became a focus of new settlers. Its coastal position, the most productive on the island, quickly permitted Funchal to develop an urban core and surpass the populations of other settlements, which slowly gravitated around it.

In the early 15th century, Álvaro Fernandes was the commander of Funchal. As part of its administrative role, the settlement received its primary lighthouse between 1452 and 1454, when it was elevated to the status of vila and municipal seat. Funchal became an important transfer point for European commercial interests; many sailors and merchants located in Funchal in order to take advantage of the transient conditions of port. Christopher Columbus was one of the early settlers, but later many of the merchant families established commercial interests on the island, including: João d'Esmenaut from the Picardy region, the Lomelino from Genoa, the Mondragão from Biscay, the Acciauoli from Florence, the Bettencourts from France, the Lemilhana Berenguer from Valencia and many others. During the second half of the 15th century, the sugar industry expanded significantly along the southern coast, from Machico until Fajã da Ovelha, making Funchal the most important industrial centre of the industry. By the end of the century, fronting the Order of Christ, D.

Manuel, Duke of Beja, expanded the support of the local community; he ordered the construction of the administrative Paços do Concelho and the Paços dos Tabeliães (completed in 1491), raised the construction of a church (began in 1493 and later raised to cathedral in 1514), and finally the construction of a hospital and customs-house in the village. In 1508, it was elevated to the status of city by King Manuel I of Portugal, and in 1514 (on completion of the Sé Cathedral) the bishopric was headquartered in Funchal. The island, and Funchal specifically, were vulnerable to privateer and pirate attacks. In September 1566, French corsairs under the command of Bertrand de Montluc, a gentleman in the court of Charles IX of France and second-son of Field Marshal Blaise de Montluc departed from Bordeaux with a force of 1200 men, on a small fleet of three main ships and eight support craft. The armada sacked Porto Santo.

When the news was relayed to the settlements on Madeira and the villas of Machico and Santa Cruz the citizenry armed themselves for the inevitable. In Funchal, the governor, Francisco de Sales Gonçalves Zarco da Câmara, did not take any action that could be construed as hostile. Meanwhile, the armada anchored in the beach of Formosa, disembarked a contingent of 800 men that marched towards the city in three columns, encountering no resistance until the main bridge in São Paulo. At the bridge the privateers encountered a force from the small fort, with a few small-caliber pieces, which were quickly routed in confusion. At the road near Carreira, the attackers were confronted by a small group of Franciscan monks, which were quickly dispatched. Funchal's fortifications were finally assaulted by land, where its defense was thin; the defenders could not even reposition many of the cannons directed towards the sea. The city suffered a violent sack that lasted fifteen days, after which little remained. The following year, the military architect Mateus Fernandes III was sent to Funchal in order to completely modify the defensive system of the city.

Evidence of the work produced by this architect was published in the "Mapa de Mateus Fernandes" (1573), considered to be the oldest plan of the island of Funchal. The document identifies the major defenses of the city, which included a large fortification in the area around the dyke in Pena. During the 16th century, Funchal was an important stop-over for caravels travelling between the Indies and the New World. The wine culture appeared during early settlement, through the incentives from Henry the Navigator. By 1455, the Venezian navigator, Luís de Cadamosto, on visiting Madeira, referred to the excellence of the Madeirense wines, principally the Malvasia castes from the island of Crete, which were being exported in greater numbers. By the end of the 16th century, the celebrated English poet and playwright, William Shakespeare, cited the important export and notoriety of the Madeiran Malvasia castes: in Richard III the Duke of Clarence, the brother of King Edward IV selected a death by drowning in a barrel of Madeira.

Later, in Shakespeare's Henry IV he has Poins censure Falstaff for having sold his soul to the devil for a cup of Madeira wine. The growth of viticulture in Madeira expanded when the sugar industry was attacked by cheaper exports from the New World and Africa, but also from various epidemics and the after-effects of the 1566 privateer sacks. In the 17th century, commercial treaties with England brought increased investments to a business that was still insular. Many commercial wine-makers from England moved to the island, establishing a change in the commerce, the economy, the architectural morphology and the lifestyle of the community. This incremental growth expanded the city with new estates, and a new merchant class that populated the urban quarters. Generally, there were many new three-floor homes with an intermediary service floor, a floor for storage and wine-cellars, and in some cases a tower to watch the port and monitor shipping in the harbour. Various island governors and the convents participated in commercial viticulture.

The Companhia de Jesus developed the vast estate of Campanário, which extended from the city to Fajã dos Padres into one of the most successful wines on the island, whereas the nuns of Santa Clara, owners of some large parcels of land, entered into the wine industry, financing the ships that would take their wines to Brazil (and exchanging them for sugar for their sweets business). But, during the 19th century there were epidemics, aggravating the economy and forcing some to return to sugar plantations. In order to maintain the level of development, many landowners tried to plant new more-resistant castes, but of an inferior quality, in order to support the industry. The city was twice bombarded by German U-boats during World War I.

A few of the notable visitors to the region were Elisabeth of Bavaria, empress of Austria-Hungary, 1837-1898 (who travelled to the island for leisure and health), Charles I of Austria, Emperor Austria and King of Hungary, 1867–1918, Polish Field Marshal Józef Piłsudski in order to recuperate his health, Winston Churchill (who travelled there on holidays and was known to have painted a few paintings during his visits) and Fulgencio Batista (who stopped over en route to his exile in Spain). The presence of these notable visitors marked a period when Funchal became a center of tourism and therapeutic health. With the formal creation of the Port of Funchal, and later the establishment of the Santa Catarina Airport, Funchal turned into a major international tourist destination supported by a series of hotels and ocean-front residences. Climate Funchal has a mild mediterranean climate with even temperatures all year round.

The climate can be separated into two main seasons: a rainier and slightly cooler season from October through March with average daily high temperatures ranging from 20 °C (68 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F) and a drier and warmer season from April through September with average daily high temperatures ranging from 21 °C (70 °F) to 26 °C (79 °F). Humidity levels remain constantly high at about 70%. Sea temperatures range from a low of 18 °C (64 °F) in February–March to 24–26 °C (75 °F) in August–October. Since the city rises from the sea up to altitudes of 800 meters on its northern slopes, it is quite common to experience cloudiness, fog and rain on those northern suburbs while clear skies remain nearer to the sea. Temperatures also tend to be slightly lower at the higher altitudes. Early summer, especially June, tends to be quite infamous due to a phenomenon where persistent cloudiness covers the entire bay area of Funchal, locally nicknamed "Funchal's helmet".

The length and severity of the rainy season varies greatly from year to year. Human geography The urbanized core of the city of Funchal includes several of the civil parishes that surround the municipality (Câmara de Lobos, Santa Cruz, Machico and Ribeira Brava), and includes a population of 150,000 inhabitants (representing the largest city outside mainland Portugal). The municipality itself is a grouping of several smaller administrative entities, that includes Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Caniço and Santa Cruz, located along the southern coast of Madeira. Funchal is a cosmopolitan and panoramic city, with parks, shops and hotels. The municipality (Portuguese: concelho) and city (Portuguese: cidade) are one administrative division, administered by an executive and legislative committee in the city hall. Local communities, are administered at the civil parish levels, through their own legislative bodies and executives.

Funchal comprises ten civil parishes (Portuguese: freguesias) based on traditional religious districts (Portuguese: paróquias): Imaculado Coração de Maria - a northern suburb, it is one of the smaller parishes in area, with the highest concentrations of residents (6951 residents in 2001); Monte - originally a summer refuge for the wealthy, due to its mild climate, Monte is symbolized by the toboggan drivers that race tourists down to the central town; today it is one of the more populated areas of Funchal with over 7500 inhabitants; Santa Luzia - one of the four urban suburbs of Funchal, developed from urban sprawl that expanded into the hinterland; today there are more than 6600 inhabitants in these foothills; Santa Maria Maior - named from the first episcopal divisions on the island, it along with Sé were the first faith communities to develop, concentrating along the coast in the church of Nossa Senhora do Calhau; Santo António - the most populated civil parish in the municipality, developed from the concentration of small artisan shops, that developed until the 16th century; today the population

 includes approximately 22,000 residents; São Gonçalo - named after the explorer Gonçalo Aires Ferreira, in service to João Gonçalos Zarco, the lands of the parish were once the personal domains of this settler, who later took on the anointed name by its residents, due to his piety; São Martinho - its first settler Afonso Anes was responsible for the first artisanal and commercial buildings in the area, that was primarily agricultural in scope; today the highly urbanized area pertains to 20,000 inhabitants; São Pedro - central to the business and residential character of Funchal, São Pedro is a bedroom community of Sé, with 7681 residents; São Roque - deannexed from Sé under the authority of Cardinal Infante Henriques, the prelate of Funchal constructed this parish from sections of São Pedro and São Martinho; Sé - the historical centre of Funchal, and most developed, including many of the older buildings; its population is less than 2148 residents (2001).

Funchal Transportation The harbour of Funchal was the only major port in Madeira. Since 2007 it has been fully dedicated to passenger transport - cruise ships and ferries - and other tourist-related boats and yachts. In that year all remaining fishing activity and cargo trade was moved to the newly developed port of Caniçal, 12 mi (19 km) to the east. A ferry between Funchal and Portimao, on the mainland, provided by Naviera Armas used to sail weekly, but was discontinued in 2013 due to a dispute over harbour fees. A ferry runs in two hours between Funchal and Porto Santo Island, called the Lobo Marinho. A highway provides access to Câmara de Lobos and Ribeira Brava to the west, and Santa Cruz, Machico and Caniçal to the east. Madeira Airport, often known as Funchal Airport/Madeira/Santa Catarina Airport (code: FNC), is located east of the city, in the municipality of Santa Cruz.

The airport was one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to the limited flat space in close proximity to cliffs, but the extension of the runway on concrete pillars in the sea has improved safety. Funchal is frequently used as a stop-over by transatlantic sailors, en route from Europe to the Caribbean, as it is the northern most Atlantic island that lies in the path of the Westerlies. Funchal Religion Main article: Roman Catholic Diocese of Funchal The Episcopal see (diocese) of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Funchal includes the entirety of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, and is a suffragan see under the Archdiocese of Lisbon. Its focus is the Sé Cathedral, located in civil parish of Sé, dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Assunção (English: Our Lady of the Assumption) while its patron saint is Saint James. Anglican services have been held at Holy Trinity Church in Funchal (Rua do Quebra Costas) since 1822, although the first recorded Protestant service took place in 1774. The Holy Trinity Church also takes care of the British Cemetery of Funchal.

Funchal Baptist Church was established in Madeira in 1976. It is located at Rua Silvestre Quintino de Freitas, 126 9050-097 FUNCHAL, and provides English services in the morning and Portuguese in the evening. The Synagogue of Funchal was built in 1836, but is now disused. There is the Jewish Cemetery of Funchal which is also disused.

José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage (1823–1907), Portuguese zoologist and politician; Aires de Ornelas e Vasconcelos (18 September 1837 – 28 November 1880), Roman Catholic Archbishop of Goa; Lloyd William Mathews, KCMG, CB (7 March 1850 – 11 October 1901), British naval officer, politician and abolitionist; Artur de Sousa Pinga (30 July 1909 – 12 July 1963), professional footballer and later coach for FC Porto; Herberto Hélder (born 23 November 1930), Portuguese surrealist and experimental poet; Alberto João Jardim (born 4 February 1943), Portuguese politician and President of the Regional Government of Madeira since 1978; Fátima Lopes, ComIH (born 8 March 1965), fashion designer; Pedro Macedo Camacho (born 4 September 1979), award-winning film and video game composer; Cristiano Ronaldo (born 5 February 1985), professional

 footballer for Real Madrid and captain of the Portugal national team; Vânia Fernandes (born 25 September 1985), singer and 2008 Eurovision Song Contest competitor; Moisés Constantino Henriques (born 1 February 1987), Australian professional cricketer who currently plays for the New South Wales Blues ^ In European Portuguese.

The Brazilian Portuguese pronunciation is IPA:[fũˈʃaw] ^ Nuno Pires Soares, Instituto Geográfico Português (Geographic Institute of Portugal) ^ ^ Cidade do Funchal e a sua Evolução Espacial ^ "Climate summary: Funchal, Portugal". Weatherbase. Retrieved 9 December 2014. ^ "Weather Information for Funchal". ^ "Funchal, Madeira Climate, Temperature, Average Weather History, Rainfall/Precipitation, Sunshine". ^ "5 Exciting Activities for Holidays to Madeira Portugal". Retrieved 2015-09-27. ^ "Portos da Madeira" (in Portuguese). Administração dos Portos da Região Autónoma da Madeira. ^ madeira-web.com - Things to do: "Lobo Marinho" ^ "The Church". Holy Trinity Church, Funchal. 25 August 2010. Retrieved 10 September 2010. ^ Dysch, Marcus (7 April 2009). "Madeira: Peace in the land of Ronaldo". The Jewish Chronicle Online.

Retrieved 10 September 2010. ^ "Geminações de Cidades e Vilas: Funchal" (in Portuguese). Associação Nacional de Municípios Portugueses. Retrieved 2015-03-12. ^ "Pesquisa de Legislação Municipal - No 14471" [Research Municipal Legislation - No 14471]. Prefeitura da Cidade de São Paulo [Municipality of the City of São Paulo] (in Portuguese). Archived from the original on 2011-10-18. Retrieved 2013-08-23. ^ Lei Municipal de São Paulo 14471 de 2007 WikiSource (Portuguese) ^ "Sister cities and international relations". City of Fremantle website. Archived from the original on 15 October 2012. Retrieved 22 May 2011. Sources Fructuoso, Gaspar (1966) . Saudades da Terra (in Portuguese) 2.

Ponta Delgada, Azores: Instituto Cultural de Ponta Delgada. Madeira Island Location Video The island of Madeira has a surface area of 459 square miles (741 km2), (35 miles long and 13 miles wide). Thanks to their excellent geographical location and mountainous relief, these islands have surprisingly balmy weather, with moderate humidity and pleasant average temperatures of 25ºC in the summer and 17ºC in the winter. The sea temperature is also very mild, thanks to the influence of the warm Gulf Stream, averaging 22ºC in the summer and 18ºC in the winter. Geography The archipelago is located in the African Plate in the Atlantic Ocean between latitude 30 ° and 33 °N, basically at the same latitude as Casablanca, 978 km southwest of Lisbon, about 700 km west of the African coast, and 450 km north of the Canary Islands.

This archipelago is formed by the Madeira Island with an area of 740.7 km², Porto Santo with 42.5 km², the Desertas Islands with a total of 14.2 km² comprising the three uninhabited islands, and by the Selvagens Islands whose set of 3 islands and sixteen uninhabited islets make up an area of 3.6 km². Of the eight islands, only the two largest (Madeira and Porto Santo) are inhabited and can be accessed via the Madeira Airport in Funchal and Porto Santo Airport. Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, has access by sea, through a port with a modern station that stands out on the national scene, with regard to cruising. More than half a million passengers disembark here per year. The remaining islands are nature reserves. For hundreds of years, Funchal was the only city of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, until 5 other cities gained this status between the end of the twentieth century and the beginning of the next century: Câmara de Lobos, Caniço, Machico, Santana and Vila Baleira.

The island of Madeira has a very rugged terrain, with the highest point being Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), the Pico das Torres (1,851 m) and Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), respectively the third, fourth and fifth highest points of Portugal. The northern coast is dominated by high cliffs and in the western part of the island you find a plateau region, the Paul da Serra with altitudes between 1,300 and 1,500 m. Geology The geological history of the archipelago of Madeira is closely related to the opening and expansion of the Atlantic Ocean, a process that began about 200 million years ago and continues to this day moving at a speed of about 2 cm/year.

The archipelago is an example of intraplate volcanism- hot-spot - in an oceanic environment, resulting from the performance of two mantle plumes, one from which Porto Santo arose in mid Miocene, about 14 Ma, and later Madeira and the Desertas in the upper Miocene, about 7 Ma, and another that gave rise to the Selvagens Islands in the Oligocene, about 28 Ma. The island of Madeira rises above a vast undersea plain, within the African plate, forming a volcanic massif over 5.5 km high, of which only one third is emerged. The island has evolved through successive phases of intense volcanic activity separated by periods of very attenuated activity or inactivity, during which erosion reduced, sometimes dramatically, the size of the volcanic structure. During periods of intense erosion valleys were carved and rough reliefs were created destroying partially or totally volcanic forms, while the products of erosion were deposited on the immersed sides of the volcano or in the valleys. The resumption of activity during the following volcanic season led to fossilization of detrital sedimentary materials and of erosive reliefs.

The most recent volcanic stratigraphy unit of Madeira, which occurred 6000-7000 years ago, represents the rejuvenation phase, characterized by volcanism implanted on an erosive topography on the shapes created in the previous stage. It is considered that the island of Madeira is still at this stage of evolution, and the volcanic activity is in a temporarily dormant state. Economics Currently, tourism is the main driver and the biggest source of revenue of Madeira’s economy. In agriculture, banana production directed primarily at regional and national consumption, the flowers and the famous Madeira wine, also constitute an important contribution toward the regional economy. The Gross Domestic Product of Madeira Region in 2010 was EUR 5,224 million, representing 3% of the national total and an increase of 1.7% over 2009. The GDP per capita in the region is EUR 21.1 thousand, presenting itself as the 2nd largest next to Lisbon, and above average in Portugal and in the EU27. Trade activities represent 11.9% of total employment in the region and the Hotel and Catering represent 12.9%.

Industrial activity in Madeira is dominated by small and medium-sized companies. In Manufacturing, which represents 4.2% of employment we have handicraft activities directed at export, such as embroidery, tapestries and wickerwork and other activities, particularly targeting the regional market, such as mills and bakery and pastry products, dairy products, beer, tobacco and wine. Political system Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal since 1976 that has the Legislative Assembly of Madeira and the Regional Government as government bodies. The Autonomous Region of Madeira is an integral part of the European Union with the status of the outermost region of the Union territory. The Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of Madeira is the legislative body that also oversees the parliament which is the highest organ of self-government of the Autonomous Regions. The Legislative Assembly of Madeira is a unicameral parliament currently comprising 47 members. Members are elected for a four year term on lists submitted by the parties in a single constituency. The President of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira is José Lino Tranquada Gomes. On 1st July we celebrate the Day of the Autonomous Region of Madeira and the Madeiran Communities, or simply Madeira Day.

It is a holiday that celebrates the autonomy granted by Portugal to Madeira in the Portuguese Constitution of 1976. The Portuguese State is represented in the region by the Representative of the Republic for the Autonomous Region of Madeira, the position held by Ireneu Cabral Barreto. The parties in the Autonomous Region of Madeira are linked to large parties of the Portuguese political spectrum. PSD-Madeira won the last regional elections, held on 29th of March 2015, with 44.36% of the votes. The President of the Regional Government of Madeira is currently Miguel Filipe Machado de Albuquerque. Population The Autonomous Region of Madeira has about 270,000 inhabitants and a population density of 334.5 inhab./Km². In spite of this population density being higher than the national average, 75% of the population of Madeira dwells in only 35% of the territory, mainly on the south coast.

This is where Funchal, capital of Madeira, is located which includes 45% of the population (130,000 inhabitants), with a population of 1,500 inhab./Km². It is here that the majority of the hotels are located. Portugal | Haidakhandi Samaj Haidakhandi Samaj Portugal Babaji Samaj – location and contacts Portugal’s Babaji Samaj is located in Funchal the capital city of the Autonomous Region of Madera (RAM) which is a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, 980 km southwest of Lisbon, 660 km west from African Coast (Casa Blanca, Morocco) and 400 km from Spanish Canary Islands. Madera is 50 km long and 20 km wide. A territory of 747 Km2 with a population of 254.000, 40% of which are concentrated in Funchal. Our Association “Light-to-Earth” – Babaji Samaj is situated in São Roque, the most rural parish of Funchal town, in a quiet housing area with good accessibility (7m from city center).

The Babaji Samaj has 14 associates but there is a larger group attending the cerimonies (havan, aarti and paduka’s puja) and connecting to Sadguru Haidakhan Babaji (around 30 persons). The foundation dates from 3rd of November 2013 (Diwali day). Our Contacts: The President of the Association/Babaji Samaj is: Anandi Address: Rua Dr. José Maria da Silva nº 26, 9020-415 Funchal, Madeira Island – Portugal Phone: Mobile 00/351/96 315 0414 (Anandi)

Question: Funchal is the capital of which Portuguese autonomous island territory?
Answer: Madeira