A Fun History of Madeira

They call it “the Island of the Eternal Spring”. Today I was thinking we can talk about a Fun History of Madeira.

There is much to be said and learned about one of the most popular islands of Europe. Firstly, it is said that the people here are the most welcoming and nice… in the world! It is true that patience is one of their traits, which is in many ways to be understood for people who are the inhabitants of a corner of Paradise.
Madeira Island was discovered in 1420 by explorers Joao Goncalves Zarco and Tristao Vaz. Although it is an autonomous region belonging to Portugal, Madeira is actually geographically closer to Africa (being located some 350 miles from Morocco) than Europe (lying 620 miles away from the Old Continent).

One of the most famous people who set foot in Madeira is Christopher Columbus, who married the Governor of Porto Santo, Filipa Moniz, in 1478. Winston Churchill is another prominent figure who loved Madeira and found Camara de Lobos as a favourite painting spot.

Madeira Island celebrated Freedom Day on the 25th of April and the Republic Day on the 5th October.

One of the local fruits in Madeira is Cherimoya (or Anona). Also known as “custard apple”, the cherimoya flavor is a blend of Peach, papaya, strawberry, pineapple and banana and Mark Twain hailed it as “the most delicious fruit known to men.” The people in Madeira also love it, so much so that they even instilled a festival in its honor, celebrated yearly in March.

Whales, dolphins and seals, along with seagulls and butterflies also find a home in the welcoming coast of Madeira Island.

Due to the steep roads of the island, it is preferable to explore the island by car, which is why Funchal car hire is a popular option. You can also book a Madeira transfer.