Capela de Santa Catarina Funchal

Capela de Santa Catarina Funchal, Madeira

The Capela de Santa Catarina in Funchal on Madeira is a small but beautiful church. It is located within the pleasant Santa Catarina Park (Parque de Santa Catarina), a large green space and public park in the city.

The church was originally built in wood

History

The church dates from the 15th century and was originally constructed in wood. It is believed this was the first church built on the island, founded by Constança Rodrigues, the wife of João Gonçalves Zarco (1390-1471).

Zarco was one of the first explorers to establish settlements on the island and the first captain of Funchal.

In the 16th century, the present stone church was built.

The stone font and bell both display elements of distinctive Manueline design.

The Santa Catarina Park contains several aviaries as well as a number of stone monuments such as the one below. This commemorates the arrival of refugees from Gibraltar during World War II.

Monument to the arrival of refugees from Gibraltar

Access - Getting There

Av. Calouste Gulbenkian 1629
9000-052 Funchal

Hotels in Funchal

If you wish to stay in Funchal try the recommended Quinta do Monte. Other recommended places to stay in the city include the Hotel Quinta Bela S.Tiago or the budget Pensao Residencial Mirasol.