Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte
This was the church that replaced the former parish church that was partially destroyed by the earthquake of the 1st of April, 1748.
Built on a hilltop, its beautiful baroque facade stands out against the dramatic landscape formed by the slope overlooking Funchal. The high and imposing staircase that penitents climb to fulfill their promises also stands out. Madeirans are greatly devoted to Nossa Senhora do Monte (Our Lady of the Mountain), the patron saint of Madeira, and they have showed their devotion over the years at the popular festival held on the 15th of August.
Paintings from the late 18th century, richly carved, polychrome and gilded altars, Rococo-style, the pulpit and the choir-stalls decorate its interior.
Charles Habsburg, the last Austrian Emperor, who died here on the 1st of April, 1922, is buried in this church.
