Madeira (Portugal)

Primarily because of its remote location, Madeira's history has remained almost entirely in the hands of the Portuguese who first conquered the island in 1420 and have continued to characterise the culture and traditions ever since.

Primarily because of its remote location, Madeira's history has remained almost entirely in the hands of the Portuguese who first conquered the island in 1420 and have continued to characterise the culture and traditions ever since.
The fado, a type of melancholic narrative song, not dissimilar to the blues, that is widespread on Madeira, originates from the Portuguese cultural heritage. Fado is played live in various bars in Funchal. As in Portugal, azulejos adorn many house fronts and church interiors throughout the island of Madeira. Azulejos are small, painted tiles that are mainly blue or white in colour and were introduced by the Moors during the Middle Ages. In the early times, these mainly depicted decorative motives although later also sacral and everyday themes where portrayed. Beautiful azulejos tableaux are, for example, to be found in the Quinta Vigia in Funchal.
Typical for Madeira are also woven products that have been made out of wicker taken from the damp and warm valleys in Camacha in the southeast of the island. One may purchase this versatile weaving, everything from baskets to hats to furniture. Madeira is also famous for its fine carpets and embroidery whose authenticity may be determined from the lead seal. Colourful tapestries, fancy cushion covers and lovingly stitched tablecloths are best suited as souvenirs for the home.