Forte de Sao Tiago - Repel attacks from pirates. by Jerelis
Funchal was founded by Joao Goncalves Zarco in 1495. It grew nad did this so well that in 1508 the village was given the category of city. At that time, piratery was at its highest in the dangerous oceans and seas of the world, and Funchal was not overlooked. In the autumn of 1566, Funchal was invaded by a French buccaneer fleet and the looting lasted over a fortnight, with an enormous treasure as the result. The inhabitants of Funchal learned quickly from their mistake. They built their city in a circular shape, something like a Roman amphitheatre so that all buildings were facing the sea. There are towers and balconies on many houses, all giving us the impression that Funchal is always on the 'louk-out'.So it's fair to say that the Forte de Sao Tiago was built to repel attacks from the pirates. Its construction was completed in 1620. Enlarged in 1767 and modified in the beginning of the 19th century, it has always been a military space. Since 1992 the fortress has been under juristriction of the Regional Government of Madeira. It now serves as an art museum, bringing together various works of outstanding Portuguese artists of recents years. The collection is growing as new pieces are added. We were intriged by its yellow colour and decided to visit it.
