Machico, the ancient capital of Madeira

Machico

Marché Lavadores

Machico is a charming town located on the northeast coast of Madeira Island, Portugal. Here are some pieces of information about Machico:

1. Location Machico is located on the northeast coast of Madeira Island, approximately 22 kilometers east of the capital, Funchal. It is one of the oldest towns on the island and has a strategic geographical position, surrounded by the sea and mountains.

2. History: Machico is considered the cradle of Madeira's history. It is where the first Portuguese explorers, João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira, landed in 1419, marking the beginning of the island's colonization. Machico was once an important commercial port and played a key role in the island's development.

3. Beaches:Machico is renowned for its beautiful golden sandy beaches. Machico Beach is the largest and most popular, offering calm waters suitable for swimming. There is also the black sand beach of Prainha, which is smaller but equally picturesque.

4. Points of Interest: Machico houses some interesting sites to visit. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, built in the 16th century, is an example of traditional religious architecture, as are its narrow streets. The point of Sao Lourenço is not very far away. It's a magnificent place to explore.

Machico offers a perfect combination of beautiful beaches, fascinating history, and outdoor activities. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore historical sites, or venture into the surrounding nature, Machico will provide you with a memorable experience during your visit to Madeira.

Where to eat in Machico?

We recommend the Mercado Velho Restaurant.