Travel diary
Funchal, jewel of Madeira
Funchal , the seat of government of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, owes its name to the Portuguese word "funcho" , meaning fennel . When Portuguese navigators, led by João Gonçalves Zarco, arrived on the island of Madeira in 1419, they discovered a large quantity of wild fennel growing on the slopes of the region. Since the colonization of Madeira, Funchal has been chosen as the site of the first permanent settlement on the island, due to its favorable geographical conditions and its natural harbor. The first Portuguese settlers quickly began to develop the area for agriculture, in particular the cultivation of sugar cane, which would become an economic pillar of the island for several centuries, and Madeira wine, which would experience significant development in the 18th century, highly prized by the English. The city of Funchal thus gradually developed around its port, becoming the main urban and commercial center of Madeira. From the 16th century onwards, the city became a major administrative and cultural centre of the Madeira archipelago. The Santa Clara Monastery and the Funchal Cathedral , built at the beginning of the 16th century, were among the first major religious buildings that marked the urbanisation of the city. In the 19th century, with the end of the sugar cane monopoly and the consolidation of the wine industry, the city gradually transformed into a tourist center, particularly with the arrival of wealthy European visitors seeking to take advantage of the island's pleasant climate. Since the early 2000s, tourism has been booming thanks to the modernization of infrastructure, the growing reputation of the island and the ever-pleasant climate. The city has become a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modernity, offering visitors a unique experience of culture, history and natural beauty.
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Santana's Comforting Soup
There Santana's Soup is a traditional soup from the island of Madeira , particularly associated with the region of Santana , a village located in the mountains and famous for its traditional triangle-shaped houses (built from thatch). This dish is typical of rustic Madeiran cuisine, and is appreciated for its richness, simplicity and is often associated with the conviviality of family meals.
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The "braguinha", ancestor of the ukulele and cousin of the "cavaquinho"
The braguinha (or four-string braguinha ) is a traditional musical instrument from the island of Madeira . It belongs to the family of plucked string instruments and is similar to the mandolin or cavaquinho , the latter being more widely known in Portugal and Brazil.
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“Casas de Colmo”, architectural heritage of Madeira
The "Casas de Colmo", or thatched houses, are a true symbol of the Santana region of Madeira Island. They embody the rural heritage and traditional architecture of the island. These houses, built as early as the 16th century, were typical dwellings of farmers and modest families in the region. Their simple structure (A-shaped) was adapted to the available resources and the island climate. Originally, they were small, with two levels: a ground floor for daily life, composed of two rooms, one of which served as a bedroom, and an attic for storage. Made from rye straw, their sloping roof provided natural insulation against rain and heat. Their colours (white, blue and red) were originally chosen for practical reasons: the availability of natural pigments and the need to maintain the houses with inexpensive materials. Over time, these practical choices evolved into aesthetic and cultural codes. Bright colours became a way to express the joy of living and give these houses a distinct identity. Today, the colours of the “Casas de Colmo” are carefully preserved, as they are a key element of their tourist and heritage charm.
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Madeira wine, a nectar embodying the unique flavors of the island
The history of Madeira wine is rich and fascinating, combining maritime exploration, innovation and international prestige.
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Funchal Botanical Garden, fabulous flora
There is so much to see that it is difficult to know where to start. With the endemic and indigenous species of Madeira or the cacti and succulents? The topiary garden or the medicinal and aromatic plants? The palm trees or the mosaic beds of clipped shrubs? All are worth a visit. Admire the estrelícias (birds of paradise) that bloom all year round, the enormous prickly pears with leaves like saw blades, the rare Musschia aurea, a curious endemic plant with yellow flowers, the Geranium maderense that blooms like a firework of purple flowers…
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Why Portuguese craftsmanship appeals to decoration lovers
Madère est un véritable berceau de savoir-faire artisanal et d’activités agricoles traditionnelles. Les deux savoir-faire artisanaux qui perdurent encore sont la broderie et la vannerie.
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Alentejo and Minho: Portuguese regions at the heart of craftsmanship
Portugal is a country of diversity, and this is perfectly reflected in its regional crafts. The Alentejo, with its vast plains and whitewashed villages, is known for its colorful pottery and wool weaving. The Minho, in the north, rich in greenery and traditions, excels in embroidery and wicker basket making. These two regions alone symbolise the richness of the Portuguese artisanal heritage. Through the objects that we offer in our shop, you can discover this diversity and integrate it into your daily life, for a permanent journey to the heart of these Atlantic lands.
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Portuguese craftsmanship: a timeless treasure to discover
Portuguese craftsmanship is a rich cultural heritage, the fruit of centuries of traditions and know-how passed down from generation to generation. From the Atlantic coasts of Alentejo to the green mountains of Minho, each region of Portugal has its own style, its own artisanal language. Whether in pottery, weaving, embroidery or jewelry, Portuguese craftsmanship embodies a perfect marriage between tradition and modernity. Today, many designers are reinterpreting these ancient skills to create objects that fit perfectly into our contemporary lifestyles. Buying a Portuguese craft object is not only supporting local artisans, but also bringing a unique and authentic touch to your interior. It's time to discover this timeless treasure.
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