Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House
District: Madeira > Machico > Machico > Pontinha
Located in the Pontinha area, in Machico, Solar do Ribeirinho is situated in a central area of the town. It is close to the stream that runs through the locality, in an urban setting that invites a pause to discover its interior.
The building that houses this cultural space dates back to the 17th century. Known as Solar do Ribeirinho, this historic property underwent restoration work that allowed its structure to be preserved and adapted for its current function, keeping alive a part of the local architecture.
Inside Solar do Ribeirinho, there is a space dedicated to the history of Machico. It presents visitors with a collection of objects that reflect the figures and moments that marked the town's journey throughout the centuries. The collection spans from the 15th to the 20th century, illustrating economic, social, and cultural aspects.
We can find pieces such as a cross associated with Machim, a portrait of Tristão Vaz Teixeira, the first donatary captain of Machico, a 17th-century processional float and a rare 16th-century seal, with an ivory handle and silver die. There is also an inscription with a poetic quatrain by Francisco Álvares de Nóbrega, a local poet from the 18th century, and a diverse collection of objects that tell the story of life in the town over time.
Archaeological work carried out on the site brought to light remains that complement the visible history of the Solar. Ancient structures were discovered, such as the remains of a stable and a well-cistern dating from the 17th century. Excavations also revealed a diverse set of artifacts, including ceramics, tile fragments, and other everyday objects from the 16th to 19th centuries. Additionally, hydraulic structures were identified, which are thought to be connected to the irrigation of sugarcane fields in the surrounding area.
To make the visit more engaging, the space utilizes interactive and digital resources, offering additional ways to explore the historical and educational content and better understand Machico's past.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 32.7182296,-16.7672617
Coordinates DMS: 32°43'5.6"N 16°46'2.1"W