Madeira.Vacations

Igreja do Colégio

A plain Jesuit facade hiding one of the most decorated interiors on the island.

Gilded and tiled interior of the Igreja do Colégio in Funchal
Photo: Dietmar Rabich · CC BY-SA 4.0

The 17th-century Jesuit college church on Praça do Município looks austere from the square and opens into gilded woodwork, blue-and-white azulejos and painted panels.

Inside

The contrast between the grey stone front and the gold interior is the point. Side chapels are lined with 17th-century tiles, and the main altarpiece is heavily carved and gilded.

Entry is free or by small donation, and the adjoining university buildings occupy the rest of the old college.

Local tips

  • — The square outside is one of the prettiest in the city, tiled in black and white basalt.

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.

    from €80

    Check availability
  • 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.

    from €160

    Check availability
  • 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.

    from €110

    Check availability
  • 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.

    from €200

    Check availability
  • 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.

    from €35

    Check availability
  • 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.

    from €47

    Check availability

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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