Santo Amaro Historic Centre - Torre do Capitão

About the Torre do Capitão

The History of the Island of Madeira, which goes back several centuries to its discovery, is reflected in its diverse architectural heritage. In the Santo Amaro Historic Centre - Torre do Capitão, visitors can come into contact with the oldest vestige of civil architecture in the archipelago.

Located in Caminho de Santo Amaro, parish of Santo António, this space includes a group of representative buildings from the 15th to 18th centuries. There are four buildings: the Torre do Capitão, the Santo Amaro Chapel, the Casa dos Romeiros and a recently constructed building with a technical area and an area dedicated to temporary exhibitions.

The Torre do Capitão was built in the mid-15th century by Garcia Homem de Sousa, son-in-law of João Gonçalves Zarco, showing medieval architectural features. In turn, the Santo Amaro Chapel, also from the 15th century, houses a valuable collection: highlights include a stained glass window by Pedro Calapez and the altar by sculptor Rui Sanches.

Finally, the Casa dos Romeiros used to welcome those who came here for the festivities related to the devotion to Santo Amaro. Subject to renovation work, this building now houses the reception and shop of the Santo Amaro Historic Centre.