Madeira History and Tradition:
Portuguese gave the name “Madeira” which means “wood” obviously referring to the green and fertile slopes of the islands which is still the same at present. During the 15th century, a Portuguese explorer by the name of João Goncalvez Zarco arrived and “discovered” Madeira as commissioned by the ruler of Portugal, Henry the Navigator. The Portuguese developed the archipelago of Madeira to what it has come today as a famous and popular destination for cheap holidays. They gave the name “Madeira” which means “wood” obviously referring to the green and fertile slopes of the islands which is still the same at present.

Aside from that, Henry the Navigator took advantage of its fertile lands by planting sugarcanes in the islands which were later followed by other crops. Agriculture became and still a big part of its local economy specifically the world famous Madeira wine.

When Madeira became a part of the British Empire, they introduced some industries like banking, linen and even tourism. The British introduced embroidery in this place which in effect is also a very famous craft. When Portugal won independence, so is Madeira and in accordance to the 1976 constitution, Madeira Holidays was given autonomous status which gave this region a privilege to have their own legislative system and control its taxes.

Since Portugal is a member of the European Union, so is Madeira. Its involvement with this organization helped foster more growth and development of its infrastructures like roads and its international airport.

Portuguese is widely spoken throughout Madeira and still observe the same traditions and cultures to that of mainland Portugal. Majority of the residents are Roman Catholics and reside in two big islands namely Madeira and Ponto Santo.


Getting to Madeira
Madeira Holidays
Things To Do In Madeira
Madeira Sights And monuments
Madeira History And Tradition
Luxury And Spa Holidays In Madeira
Cheap Holidays In Madeira