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| HISTORY |
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In 1419, a storm threw navigators João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira off course from the coast of Guinea, leading them to discover Porto Santo. A year later, envoys sent by the Portuguese crown returned to claim Madeira. The subtropical climate and the lush vegetation pleased Prince Henry the Navigator, who immediately ordered that the island be populated, and decreed that cereal, sugar cane and vines be planted. On the other hand, the trees that practically covered the entire ground were felled and used to build taller and stronger masts for the caravelles of the Portuguese armada, and also in the construction of majestic houses in the Moorish style, on the Portuguese mainland. Divided into three provinces, each one with its own governor, Madeira rapidly became a prosperous island with profitable trading that attracted lots of merchants. Among them came Christopher Columbus, who married here and had a son before setting off to discover new worlds. In the 17th century the marriage of Catherine of Bragança to Charles II of England increased the influence of the English crown on Madeira Island, causing many British merchants to settle on the island and become exporters of Madeira Wine. During the 18th century Madeira became the hub of the main trading routes. Thanks to Madeira’s natural beauty and its therapeutic qualities, the island quickly turned into an important holiday destination. From as far back as the 17th century, it was favoured by European aristocracy, academics, writers, etc. Later on came movie stars and the rich and famous generally. Nowadays Madeira is a renowned tourist destination, famous for its unspoilt landscape, its year-round mild climate, and tasty food as well as for the warmth of its people, who are always ready to greet you with a welcoming smile. |
