Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora do Pico

The Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora do Pico is a 17th-century fortress on the Pico hill at Rua do Castelo, in the São Pedro district of Funchal, on the island of Madeira, Portugal. It was built on the hilltop to supplement the Forte de São Tiago and strengthen the defences of the harbour against corsairs and foreign raiders. The fortress is small, with thick stone walls, a courtyard, and a ramp leading up to the ramparts, and its main attraction today is the view. From the ramparts visitors look out over Funchal bay, the harbour, the marina, and the rooftops of the city, including the tower of the Sé Cathedral. It is considered one of the best low-cost viewpoints in town, because entry is free. Opening hours vary, so visitors should check visit.funchal.pt before going. A visit takes about 30 minutes. Late afternoon is the best time, when the light is warm and the harbour is lit, and the cruise ships in port make a colourful scene. Mornings are quieter, and the fortress is rarely crowded, as few tour groups include it. The fortress sits above the centre, and the approach is a short uphill walk from the Quinta das Cruzes, while taxis from the town centre provide an easier route. The walk up passes through quiet residential streets and can be steep, so comfortable shoes and water are advisable in summer. The fortress can be combined with the Quinta das Cruzes Museum and the Convento de Santa Clara, both in the same hillside district, giving a half-day of history and views away from the main waterfront. Photographers favour the view across the harbour toward the Zona Velha, and the angle over the rooftops toward the Sé. The ramparts have low walls, so parents should supervise children. There are few facilities at the fortress itself, so visitors should bring water, and cafes are found in the streets below.