The Fort of Sao Lourenco in Funchal on the island of Madeira large fort faces the waterfront at Funchal on the island of Madeira.
São Lourenço Palace, located at a strategic defence point on the island (Avenida Zarco), is considered the most imposing example of civil and military architecture on the island of Madeira. Construction of the palace began in the first half of the 16th century and was completed during the Spanish dynasty that ruled Portugal between 1580 and 1640. Initially used for defence purposes, the building also served as the residence of the appointed captains of Funchal and governor’s palace until a constitutional government was formed in 1834, at which time it became a residence once and for all. In 1836, the fortress-palace was separated into two areas. On the west side is the Palace, the official residence of the Civil Governor, which comprised the great halls, offices, a private area, gardens and the bulwarks to the southeast, northeast and north. On the east side was the military area, which is today occupied by the Madeira Military Command. This area is also home to a museum dedicated to various aspects of Madeira’s military history. The museum exhibits include a collection of armaments dating from the 17th century to today. São Lourenço Fortress and Palace was classified as national monument in 1943, and in 1976, when the autonomous system of government was established, it became the official residence of the Minister of the Republic.
Size: 6016px × 4016px
Location: Funchal,Madeira,Portugal
Photo credit: © Brenda Kean / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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