Parque de Santa Catarina, Funchal, Madeira
The pleasant Santa Catarina Park (Parque de Santa Catarina) is a large green space and public park in Funchal close to the Casino da Madeira. Within the park is the small but beautiful Capela de Santa Catarina.
The Parque de Santa Catarina contains several aviaries as well as a number of monuments including one that commemorates the arrival of refugees in Madeira from Gibraltar during World War II.
Among several art works is a statue of Christopher Columbus looking over the tremendous view of Funchal Bay, one of many statues and monuments in Madeira.
History
Dating from 1960, the park was previously the Nossa Senhora das Angústias Cemetery from 1837 which was moved to what is now the Cemitério Nossa Senhora das Angústias in São Martinho during World War II. On its western edge is the Quinta Vigia which is now the official residence and office of the President of the Regional Government of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The Quinta Vigia over its history has been temporary home to such famous figures as Amélie, Empress of Brazil and Duchess of Braganza, the Russian painter Karl Briullov and Elizabeth, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary. They all came to the warmer climate of Madeira to treat various illnesses and ailments.
Layout
Located on a hill, the park covers an area of approximately 36,000 square meters. It is a short walk from both the marina and CR7 Museum.
It offers a range of recreational activities and beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the park's highlights include a lake with ducks and swans, a children's playground, a large lawn, flower beds, a picnic area, and a walking trail that leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Additionally, the park is home to several species of exotic plants and trees, which have been carefully cultivated to create a lush and colorful landscape.
Visitors can also find a variety of sculptures and other works of art throughout the park. These include statues of Prince Henry the Navigator and Christopher Columbus - two men with deep, historical connections with Madeira.
There is also a small cafe to relax and dine alfresco.
Accommodation
If you visit to stay in this area of Funchal, there are several options.
These include the nearby Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino, overlooking the Bay of Funchal, Pestana Casino Studios and the Hotel Madeira.
Top end hotels on Madeira include the LTI Pestana Grand Ocean Resort Hotel, with spa, steam baths, saunas and indoor pool, the Pestana CR7 Funchal above the Museu CR7 and The Cliff Bay - PortoBay boasting indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a 2-Michelin star restaurant and free Wi-Fi.
Budget options in Funchal include the 3 star Hotel Monte Carlo, and the Hotel Catedral, also 3 star with air-conditioned rooms and terrace.
See a full listing of hotels in Funchal and hotels in Madeira as a whole.
Access
Avenida do Infante
Funchal, Madeira
Admission is free.
Hours: the garden is open 7 am to 10 pm from late March to late September; 7 am to 8 pm late September to late March.
Santa Catarina Park is located between Avenida do Infante and Avenida Sá Carneiro. The smaller Jardim Municipal do Funchal is a short walk away toward the center.
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