Santa Cruz spans an area of 81.5 km² and is home to 43,005 residents, organized into five parishes. The village of Santa Cruz, one of the island’s oldest settlements, dates back to the early fifteenth century. Established on June 26, 1515, the municipality attained city status on August 2, 1996.

In terms of architectural heritage, notable structures include the Santa Cruz Parish Church, initiated as a small chapel in 1533 by King Manuel I, featuring a Gothic portal. The Caniço Parish Church, founded in 1536, and the Chapel of Consolation, initially from the sixteenth century but later renovated in the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, showcase intricate woodwork, silver religious artefacts, and various religious imagery. The Santa Isabel Chapel, constructed in the early eighteenth century, boasts a splendid golden altar. Other historical churches include the Mercy Church from the sixteenth century, the Lady of the Conception Church from the early seventeenth century, the “Nossa Senhora dos Remédios” Church from the late seventeenth century, and the Gaula Parish Church, erected in the mid-eighteenth century, housing significant liturgical vessels, including a fifteenth-century processional cross.

Santa Cruz also boasts enchanting beaches, such as Praia das Palmeiras, a rocky shoreline offering a spectacular sunset view for a relaxing day. Machico Beach provides an alternative with imported sand from Morocco for those averse to rocky shores. Prainha Beach, though featuring black sand, is a delightful option for those unbothered by its unique texture.

For panoramic views, the Pico do Facho serves as an excellent vantage point. Weather permitting, and with optimal visibility conditions, one can behold the Island of Porto Santo and catch a glimpse of Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo.

Visiting Santa Cruz (Madiera) for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Santa Cruz (Madiera) on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Santa Cruz (Madiera) not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Santa Cruz (Madiera) and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Penha d’Águia

Boasting incomparable grandeur, Penha d’Águia stands as one of the most significant geological symbols in the archipelago of Madeira. Situated between Porto da Cruz and Faial within the municipality of Machico, this colossal formation is a genuine natural monument. Its sheer size, nearly 600 meters in height, makes it an unmistakable landmark, dominating the landscape and […]

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Visiting Penha d’Águia