Madeira Churches & Chapels

In Madeira, the churches are a real attraction, given the preciousness of their heritage and the richness of their interiors. These are decorated with impressive, detailed designs, many of them carefully hand painted.

Among the most important temples of the island, are the Sé Cathedral, the Churches of Colégio, Carmo and Santa Clara, the church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, all of which are located in Funchal; the Church of St. Sebastião in Câmara de Lobos; the Church of Santa Cruz, in Santa Cruz; and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Porto Santo.

The Cathedral was the first temple of Funchal to be built. This Manueline church hosts a processional cross, offered by King Manuel I, which is considered one of the masterpieces of Manueline Portuguese jewellery. Yet the baroque Church of Socorro dates from the 18th century and the Church of Santa Luzia displays fabulous paintings from the 17th century.