Environment
Funchal is located in the Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean - about 861 km from Lisbon -
in the islands of Madeira. Madeiras flora and vegetation is stunningly beautiful. The islands is also
strongly characterized of its wild coastline, deep ravines and steep mountains - it's an enchanting place in the world.
The Atlantic invites you to go sailing, fishing, whale and dolphin spotting, surfing and diving, among other
water sports. Golf is also an favored activity.
In Portugal the Atlantic Ocean is always "close by" - distances from estern inland border will
maximum be a two hour drive. The closest beach is less than 1 km away.
Climate : Mild Island clima - winter and summer - with a few months that is often wet and windy (June to September) Town character : Historical town Primary Industry : Service industry
Population in Funchal: 105.000 inhabitants. Population in the Greater Funchal area: about 160.000 inhabitants.
Funchal is the chief city of Madeira Island, and the capital of the Madeira Autonomous Region. Funchal is also the most prominent and largest Portuguese city outside mainland Portugal.
The city was founded by João Gonçalves Zarco in 1421 and was elevated to city status by King Manuel I of Portugal in 1508. In the 16th century Funchal was important as a stopping place between the Indies and the New World. It was also the port for Madeiran sugar and wine.
Funchal has been Madeira's capital for more than five centuries, and is said to have been so named because of the abundance of fennel (funcho - in Portuguese) growing there.
Tourism
Funchal is a cosmopolitan and modern city, with many hotels and several parks. Nowadays Funchal is a major tourist attraction, with many hotels and an important port. Cruise ships, boats and yachts use Funchal as a port of call.
Other tourist destinations not to miss, are the Laurisilva forest - a UNESCO Natural Site in the center of Madeira island, and the beaches in Porto Santo island.
Funghal Passenger Ropeway
There is a passenger gondola lift - Funchal Passenger Ropeway - that transports people from the lower section of the city to the suburb of Monte.
Wine from the region of Madeira
Portugal produces some of the world's finest, oldest, unique and highest value-added wines.
The country has a large variety of native breeds - about 285 - producing a very wide
variety of different wines with distinctive personality.
