Forte de São José

Built in the mid-18th century on the rock of Ilhéu de São José to defend the sea entrance to Funchal, when the port played a central role in trade. Tradition has it that João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira, Madeira's discoverers, sheltered here on arriving at an island covered in forest. During the British occupation of 1801–1807 the fort served as headquarters and then as a prison. Long neglected, it was revitalised by the private owner who bought it. Panoramic view over the Atlantic and the harbour.