Fortaleza de São Tiago

A yellow 17th-century sea fort at the end of the old town.

Ochre walls of the Fortaleza de São Tiago above the sea in Funchal
Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0

Built from 1614 to defend Funchal from pirates, the fort now guards the eastern end of the Zona Velha. Its ramparts give the best straight-on view back along the seafront.

Visiting

The building has served as a barracks, a museum and an events venue, and its use changes; the terraces and the walk around the outside are always worth doing even when the interior is closed.

Below the fort, the Barreirinha bathing complex gives sea access with a lifeguard.

Local tips

  • Walk here along Rua de Santa Maria rather than the main road.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Funchal waterfront and old town at golden hour
    2 hours Funchal

    Funchal Old Town & Monte Toboggan Tour

    A private tuk-tuk through the painted doors of the Zona Velha, up to Monte and the famous wicker toboggan ride back down.

  • Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday in Madeira
    3 hours Madeira 5.0(46)

    Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday

    Our half day starts at Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, a very nice view of all Funchal, where we can see different locations of the city and have an amazing sight for lovely pictures.

  • Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop in Madeira
    2 hours Funchal 5.0(35)

    Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Funchal's downtown with a passionate local guide, cruising in style on a classic motorcycle with a sidecar.

  • Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira in Madeira
    5 hours Funchal 5.0(30)

    Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira

    Experience the essence of Madeira in just 5 hours. This immersive tour takes you through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant local culture, and scenic viewpoints, offering a true taste of island's unique charm.

  • Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour in Madeira
    1.2 hours Funchal 4.9(79)

    Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour

    Enjoy the Christmas decorations all around Funchal. View the magnificent light decorations. Experience the nostalgia of our classic cars.

  • Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour in Madeira
    4 hours Madeira 4.9(49)

    Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour

    We invite you to explore some of the most isolated places on the island, without straying too far from Funchal.

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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