Monte Funchal Madeira Portugal Europe. Photo by Willy Matheisl
Willy Matheisl Funchal, Monte, population approximately 140,000, is the capital of the Madeira Islands of Portugal. Funchal is also the largest city on the islands. It was founded by João Gonçalves Zarco in 1421 and was elevated to city by King Manuel I in 1508. Today Funchal is a modern city, located in a unique area; the natural geological features form an "amphitheatre" surrounding the city, which begins at the harbour and rises almost 1200 metres high on gentle slopes. This provides a natural shelter and was what attracted the first 's capital for more than five centuries, Funchal is said to have been named as such because of the abundance of fennel (funcho- in portuguese) that was growing there.
Size: 4368px × 5601px
Location: Monte Funchal Madeira Portugal Europe
Photo credit: © willy matheisl / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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