Fortaleza do Pico

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Madeira > Funchal > Funchal > Achada

Location

Located in Achada, Funchal city, Pico Fortress stands imposingly 111 meters above sea level. Its privileged location, at the top of what was known as Pico dos Frias, offers a vast and stunning panorama over the entire city and its port, extending to the Atlantic horizon. From here, the view encompasses a large part of the urban and maritime landscape, positioning it as a remarkable observation point.

A Historical Legacy

The construction of Pico Fortress dates back to the 17th century, a period of great instability when corsair and pirate attacks were a constant threat. Built to strengthen Funchal's defensive system, its primary function was the surveillance and protection of the city and its port. Over the centuries, the fortress adapted to different needs, serving as a gunpowder magazine, prison, and even a place where young people learned trades. In the mid-20th century, it became a strategic point for the communications of the Portuguese Navy, earning it the popular nickname "Pico Rádio" (Pico Radio), due to the various antennas it then displayed. This monument has been recognized as a Property of Public Interest since 1943.

Architecture and Environment

With its imposing citadel-like structure, Pico Fortress occupies a considerable area on top of the hill. Its military, bastioned design, with a quadrangular plan and four pentagonal bastions at the vertices, reflects the defensive engineering of the era. Inside, one can observe the large parade ground and dependencies that once served as barracks, some excavated directly into the rock. Also noteworthy is an impressive cistern, also excavated into the rock, which testifies to the autonomy the fortress sought to ensure. Recent interventions have allowed for the preservation and enhancement of this space, making it accessible and welcoming for visitors, while maintaining its historical and scenic character.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt