The São Tiago Fort is a must-see when visiting the picturesque old town of Funchal, Portugal. This 17th-century fortification offers stunning views of the city and the glittering ocean.
The fort is well-preserved, and its vibrant colour highlights the building from afar. It houses a well-known restaurant, and next to it is the small beach of São Tiago (of pebbles).
- Coordinates: 32.646633,-16.898609
To know what to visit, read Funchal Things To Do. For more information about Madeira, see Things To Do In Madeira.
São Tiago Fort – Location
Address: Travessa do Forte 8, 9060-123 Funchal
Opening Hours – São Tiago F.
- Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
Access Ticket Price:
The admission fee is €2.50.
Individuals over 65 or holders pay just £1.25.
There’s nothing quite like strolling the streets of the old neighbourhood and breathing in history.
An inscription on the fortress reveals construction began around 1614 by master Jerónimo Jorge. After his death (1617), his son Bartolomeu relentlessly continued his work.
The defence of Madeira received little real attention due to Portugal’s absolute domination of the South Atlantic sea routes.
But in 1566, Funchal was the target of an attack organised by French corsairs under Pierre Bertrand de Montluc’s command (mortally wounded).
The attack made evident the need for a fort.
An expansion took place in the 18th century under the direction of engineer Tossi Columbina (author of Funchal port).
This intervention year is in the plaque over the new port: 1767.
Modifications were made during the Napoleonic Wars (19th century). It accommodated British troops during that time.
It was used only for military purposes until 1992. The regional government decided to use it for cultural activities.
Forte Restaurant
The restaurant within provides a romantic atmosphere, perfect for rendezvous with someone special. Prices are above average for Funchal, yet reasonable considering its unique location.
Try the Classic Experience (price €90):
- They will collect you from the Hotel in a classic car.
- Take a drive along the Avenida do Mar.
- Upon arrival, indulge in aperitifs on the terrace.
- Enjoy a three-course dinner, including wine and dessert.
- We return to the hotel in a different classic car.
Things to do nearby:
Complexo Balnear da Barreirinha
Beside São Tiago Fortem, lies the Barreirina Bathing Complex, awarded with a blue flag for its exceptional conditions for swimming and basking in the sun.
Teleférico Funchal – Monte
The Funchal-Monte Cable Car is an excellent way to experience the city and reach Monte in no time.
The cable car views are fantastic, a great way to avoid traffic and parking – a 15-minute journey.
The station is located at Almirante Reis Field. The Cable Car gives us access to the Monte Garden Madeira and the Madeira Botanical Garden.
In the vicinity of the Fortress, within the Old Town, lies the Corpo Santpo Chapel and the charming Santa Maria Street (Rua de Santa Maria). The Funchal-Monte Cable Car is a mere stone’s throw away.
Corpo Santo Chapel
The Chapel is in the old town of Funchal, known for its Gothic and Mannerist façade (Baroque interior decor).
It is a popular place of pilgrimage for local fishermen who come to pay their respects to their patron saint.
Rua de Santa Maria
It is a street renowned for its doors adorned with street art, picturesque restaurants, and traditional shops.
