They built the João Gonçalves Zarco Monument to honour the great Portuguese explorer of the fifteenth century.
It is a substantial statue, standing proudly at the intersection of Avenida Arriaga and Avenida Zarco in the Portuguese city of Funchal, Madeira.
- Coordinates: 32.647941, -16.909787
This bronze memorial to Portugal’s reflects the grandeur of Zarco’s legacy and is located close to Funchal’s Se Cathedral. It was established in 1914 by the Junta Geral do Distrito to honor the life and work of João Gonçalves Zarco.
For more information about the city, visit Things To Do In Madeira Funchal. For a guide to the island, read Things To Do Madeira.
Location of the Monument to João Gonçalves Zarco
Morada: Avenida Zarco, 9000-059 Funchal
The statue stands boldly, reminding us that Zarco was a leading figure in establishing settlements on Madeira Island.
Born in the 14th century, Zarco was a determined and courageous man, leading expeditions to unexplored waters.
The goal was to find out if there was land beyond what they already knew and help Portuguese cartographers to represent more of the world.
He had the fearlessness and adventure spirit needed to overcome unknown dangers. A man of grand vision and a true pioneer.
After retiring from the expeditions, he served as a wise adviser to the king, defending the rights of Madeira settlers.
It was in this position that he finally departed to the great unknown (1471).
Zarco left a legacy of courage and determination, still admired today.
Next to the monument is the centenary Golden Gate Grand Café, an emblematic symbol of the city, famous even outside the borders of Madeira.
During the Second World War, the artistic elite of the island met with the European tourist elite, enjoying the delicious sweets and drinks offered there.
Nearby, we find the Blandy’s Wine Lodge cellars, where we taste the delicious Madeira Wine.
Not far away, we find the magnificent Funchal Cathedral and São Lourenço Palace with a small exhibition. The Mar avenue takes us to Funchal Marina and CR7 Museum.
Things to do near the statue:
Next to the monument is the centenary Golden Gate Grand Café, one of the most emblematic symbols of the city, famous even outside the borders of Madeira.
During the Second World War, it was here that the artistic elite of the island met with the European tourist elite, enjoying the delicious sweets and drinks offered there.
Nearby, we could also find the Blandy’s Wine Lodge cellars, where you could taste the delicious Madeira Wine.
Not far away, we find the magnificent Cathedral of Funchal, the Palace of São Lourenço, with a small historical exhibition, as well as Avenida do Mar, which takes us to the Marina and the CR7 Museum.
