Fortaleza de São Tiago, Funchal, Madeira
The Fortaleza de São Tiago (aka Forte de Santiago) is a historic fortress in the Old Town (Zona Velha) of Funchal. Like other fortifications on Madeira it was constructed to protect the island from pirates.
History
Like the Palácio de São Lourenço which houses the interesting Madeira Military Museum, the Fort of São Tiago dates from the reign of King Philip I of Portugal (Philip II of Spain). An inscription on the original Portão de Armas (Gate of Arms), shows a date of 1614 though work continued into the 1630s. The design is attributed to Mateus Fernandes and his successor as royal builder, Jerónimo Jorge and his son Bartolomeu João.
Modifications to the fort continued in the 18th century by order of the governor and captain-general of Madeira, José Correia de Sá. The garrison numbered 20 men at the time.
By the time of the Peninsular War (1807-1814), the fort was largly abandoned. However, a force of 3500 British soldiers were stationed here in 1801.
The fort also provided shelter for people during the great flood of 1803.
Between 1992 and 2015, it was home to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea do Funchal before that institution was transferred to the Casa das Mudas, in Calheta.
Access
The fort is in the Old Town (Zona Velha) of Funchal which adds to its charm. This historic district is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
The São Tiago Fort is as short walk from Funchal Cathedral, Rua de Santa Maria and the Madeira Story Centre. The cable car to Monte (Teleférico Funchal-Monte) is also nearby as is the Jardim do Almirante Reis.
Map
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