The Church of Our Lady of the Mount in Funchal is one of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, boasting a marvellous location and rich history.
For the best tourist spots in Funchal, see What To Do in Funchal Madeira Portugal. Regarding Madeira, click Things To Do In Funchal.
- Coordinates: 32.675953,-16.902527
Church Location
At the top in the Monte parish, a very charming place with fantastic gardens to enjoy.
Morada: Rampa da Sacristia 1, 9050-285 Funchal
Telefone: 291783877
What is the best way to reach Monte?
From the centre of Funchal, it can be reached by bus 21, 21 (costs €2). But the best option is to know the city over the air, through the Funchal – Monte Cable Car (costs €12.5)
The church is within a 5-minute journey from the cable car’s upper station.
Opposite the church lies the starting point for one of the island’s main attractions, the descent in traditional madeira toboggan ride, dating back to the 19th century. It costs €25.
Monte Church
The church was built in the 17th century on top of an ancient chapel from the 15th century erected by Adão Gonçalves, the first man born on the island of Madeira.
In 1748, it suffered greatly from an earthquake, now renovated with the structure we see today. It is a beautiful church: refined interior with candelabra and paintings.
Charles I of Austria
In a side chapel lies the tomb of Charles Habsburg, Emperor of Austria, King of Hungary, and King of Bohemia. As he was on the losing side of World War I, he was exiled to Madeira, arriving in 1921.
Despite his exile, he was a man who always sought peace and, due to his virtuous character and frequent attendance of mass, was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2004.
He lived in Madeira for five months before succumbing to pneumonia (34 years old). His descendants continue to visit his tomb regularly.
Festivity
The veneration of Nossa Senhora do Monte since the earliest days of the island’s settlement.
It is considered the most important religious festival in the region, taking place between the 14th and 15th of August.
Over two days, the Mount transforms into one of the liveliest places on the island.
Thousands of people spread throughout the village centre, enjoying traditional skewered beef and regional drinks.
Throughout the night, people sing and dance to contemporary and traditional rhythms. Following the mass (15th of August), faithful followers accompany the procession as it travels through Monte.
O que visitar e fazer perto da Igreja:
Monte Palace Madeira
The Tropical Monte Palace Garden is beautiful in Madeira’s mountains.
The gardens include a variety of exotic plants from around the world, as well as a collection of cicadas. Open to the public with guided tours available. Admission fee: 12.5 euros.
Madeira Toboggan Ride
Unique transportation on Madeira island. This journey takes us at lightning speed to the centre of the city. It is a singular experience only possible on Madeira island.
The operators are called Carreiros do Monte. The driver teaches it to apprentices; for example, if an apprentice makes a mistake, the driver corrects it.
The Botanic Garden of Madeira is in an elevated space in Funchal city. This garden was established in 1960, covering an area of approximately 35,000 square meters and boasting over two thousand species of exotic plants.
Palheiro Golf
Palheiro Golf is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Europe.
Approximately 500 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
The 18-hole par 72 course is challenging, with fast greens and narrow fairways rewarding precision. In addition to an excellent golf course, the club also boasts dining establishments.
Palheiro Gardens
The Palheiro Gardens are renowned not only for the diversity of flora they cultivate but also for their picturesque location nestled in the mountains. We find a charming chapel and a grand 17th-century manor house.
Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary
After German submarines bombed Funchal Port (1917), there was a promise to build a Sanctuary. Inaugurated on August 14th, 1927, it is now a popular tourist destination.
