Fort of São Fernando

Category: Military Architecture > Fortress

District: Madeira > Santa Cruz > Santa Cruz > São Pedro

Location

Located on the east coast of Madeira Island, in the town of Santa Cruz, the Fort of São Fernando stands in a strategic position. It is found in the São Pedro urbanization, dominating the panorama over the beach and the city's coastline. Its placement on a small promontory gives it a privileged perspective over the ocean and the surrounding coastline.

A Sentinel of History

The Fort of São Fernando represents an important testimony to the defensive history of the Madeiran archipelago. Its construction was fundamental for the protection of the region, particularly against frequent assaults by corsairs who threatened populations and goods. The fort thus symbolizes the resilience of the island's inhabitants in the face of the maritime dangers that marked past centuries.

Origin and Rehabilitation

Built in the 18th century, this fort likely utilized the base of an old lookout, a primary observation point at the time. Its structure was subsequently rehabilitated and expanded. Later, during the Liberal Wars in Portugal, the fort underwent significant intervention and restoration, work led by Sergeant-Major Paulo Dias de Almeida.

The name "São Fernando" is due to the existence of an old chapel dedicated to this saint, which was located in this area. According to historical records, by 1820, this chapel was no longer on the site, just like another one, consecrated to Saint Lazarus, which was also located near the fort's guardhouse.

Defensive Architecture

The architecture of the Fort of São Fernando stands out for its irregular, predominantly triangular plan. Its robust walls, built of stonework masonry, define the perimeter of the fortification. The side facing the sea has a rounded shape, adapting to the terrain.

Inside, there is a parade ground, once the center of military activities for the soldiers stationed there. The facilities that housed the powder magazine, the guardhouse, and the military command were located on the land-facing side of the fort.

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