Fortim do Faial

About the Fortim do Faial

The municipality of Santana houses a very special place, which offers visitors a journey back in time and a stunning landscape. This is, of course, the Fortim do Faial viewpoint, a must-see on the north coast of the island of Madeira.

Built in the 18th century, this place has a recreational architectural profile. An incursion into the past complemented by some relics present there, such as the ten small cannons of English origin once used to defend the place.

The Fortim do Faial was built here with the purpose of watching for invaders. Today, the space recreates a military battery, with a semi-circular plan, which follows the profile of the slope where it is located, with an exterior wall. The lower two thirds are more advanced and the fort still has a capstone in ashlar masonry.

Thus, since 1996 it has been considered a Monument of Local Value, much visited also for its privileged view. From the Fortim do Faial viewpoint you can see places such as Faial, São Roque do Faial or Porto da Cruz, as well as the imposing Penha d'Águia and Ponta de São Lourenço. On clear days, you can even see the island of Porto Santo.