Palácio de São Lourenço, Funchal, Madeira
The historic Palácio de São Lourenço in Funchal, Madeira on Avenida Zarco served as both a palace and a fortress. The building is also now home to the interesting Madeira Military Museum. It is the most important military structure in Madeira.
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| The Palácio de São Lourenço in Funchal |
History
The fortress dates from the first half of the 16th century and was completed during the reign of King Philip I of Portugal (Philip II of Spain). The Palace, including the halls on the main floor and the interior gardens are from the last quarter of the 18th century.
The fort was much strenghtened following the devasting raid on the island by French pirates in 1566. During the period of Spanish control of Portugal from 1580-1640 the fort became the residence of the governors of Madeira.
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| 17th century plan of the Fortaleza de São Lourenço |
The fort served as protection against raids by corsairs and pirates. It was once the residence of the governors of Madeira and is now occupied by the Commandant of the Military Zone of Madeira.
Palácio de São Lourenço was occupied by the British for a short period from December 1907 to April 1808 in the middle of the Napoleonic Wars. São Lourenço also played a part in the 1931 revolt, a military uprising against the government of the National Dictatorship (1926-1933). A military expedition sent from Lisbon eventually put down the insurrection after seven days of fighting.
Another historic fort to the east is the Fortaleza de São Tiago (aka Forte de Santiago).
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| The fort helped protect the island from raids by pirates |
Access - Getting There
Avenida Zarco, 9000-000 Funchal
Close to the statue of João Gonçalves Zarco on Avenida Zarco, the fortress is a recognizable landmark on the main road by the sea.
The building is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
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| The inner courtyard of the palace |
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.
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| View of the sea from the fort's ramparts |
More on Madeira
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