Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte

Church in Monte (Madeira)

The picturesque parish of Monte, known for its lush greenery, is a top destination for tourists, boasting some of Madeira’s most beautiful gardens. It has become a favorite among visitors and is renowned for its natural beauty. The cable car connecting Monte to the Zona Velha (Old Town) offers a breathtaking journey over the city of Funchal. This area is also famous for the traditional wicker sledges that descend from here.

Monte is home to a selection of high-quality hotels and restaurants, making it an appealing destination for travelers. Moreover, it’s where the largest festival in Madeira takes place, celebrated on August 15th, blending religious rituals with lively festivities. The festival attracts hundreds of immigrants and locals alike.

In addition to the devotion to Our Lady of Monte, the parish also celebrates the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a practice dating back to the 20th century and strengthened by the presence of the Emperor of Austria, who was beatified in 2004. Vestiges of this history can still be found at the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte, the local church.

Don’t miss the chance to admire the simple yet beautiful architecture of the church while in Monte. This area is also known for the Quinta Jardins do Imperador, a manor renowned for its gardens and its connection to Emperor Charles I of Austria, who lived and passed away there during his exile in Madeira in 1921.

To reach Monte, take a stroll up Rua 31 de Janeiro and then Rua do Til. Once you arrive, be sure to visit the ‘Monte Palace Tropical Garden,’ a captivating space under the Berardo Foundation’s care. It features exotic plants from around the world and stunning ornamentation, including a panel of 166 terracotta glazed tiles titled ‘The Adventures of the Portuguese in Japan.’

About 2 kilometers from Monte, in Terreiro da Luta, you can explore the largest monument in Madeira, dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Paz (Our Lady of Peace).

The Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Monte (Madeira)!

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Visiting Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte

Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 7 pm, Sunday and Monday 9 am – 6 pm. Masses are held on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 6 pm, on Wednesday at 8.30 am and on Saturday at 6 pm. Sunday masses are at 8 am and 11 am.

Address: Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte, Rampa da Sacristia, Funchal, Portugal

Duration: 20 minutes