Fifth Watch

Category: Nature > Farm

District: Madeira > Funchal > Funchal > Sé

Location

Quinta Vigia is located on Avenida do Infante, one of the main arteries of Funchal city, integrated into the Sé area. It is situated in an elevated position above the coastline, offering panoramic views over the bay, the port, and the urban surroundings.

Set within a semi-urban environment, this property stands out as a significant green space, benefiting from its privileged location to provide wide and appealing landscapes over the ocean and the city.

Historical Features

The history of Quinta Vigia dates back centuries, having initially been known as Quinta das Angústias, possibly in reference to the chapel existing on the site, dating from 1662 and dedicated to Nossa Senhora das Angústias. Over time, the property passed through different owners and was even designated as Quinta Lambert for a period.

This estate hosted several notable figures of the European aristocracy, including Queen Adelaide of England, the Duke of Leuchtenberg (who was son-in-law to Tsar Nicholas I), and Empress D. Amélia of Brazil with her daughter, Princess D. Maria Amélia. Currently, after being acquired by the Regional Government in 1979 and undergoing refurbishment works, Quinta Vigia is the official residence of the President of the Regional Government of Madeira.

The Gardens

The gardens of Quinta Vigia extend over a considerable area and represent one of its main attractions. They were designed to present a harmonious combination of subtropical botanical species with specimens of Madeira's endemic flora.

Walking along the paths, it is possible to observe a diversity of plants, including large trees, shrubs, and a variety of flowers that contribute to the richness and beauty of the green space. The layout of the gardens takes advantage of the estate's location to frame the views over Funchal Bay.

Architectural and Scenic Elements

In addition to the main house, which blends styles such as Baroque and Neoclassical, the estate features architectural elements of interest. The 17th-century chapel is a historical piece of the ensemble.

Outside, the Mirante de D. Guiomar stands out, a structure with Mannerist characteristics that served as an elevated observation point. Next to the wall above the port, there are also small constructions known as "casinhas de prazer" (pleasure houses), which add a picturesque touch and offer perspectives on the maritime dynamics.

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