Palácio de São Lourenço

"Located at a strategic point for the defence of Funchal, the Palácio de S. Lourenço is recognised as the most impressive example of civil and military architecture on the island of Madeira. It is well worth a visit. The construction of this historic building began in the first half of the 16th century. It was completed during the Spanish dynasty that reigned in Portugal between 1580 and 1640. Initially, it was mainly invested with a defensive mission. Later, it became the residence of the captains-donataries of Funchal and the captain-general governors. With the establishment of the constitutional government in 1834, the Palácio de S. Lourenço, also known as Fortaleza de S. Lourenço, definitively took on a residential function. Two years later, it was divided into two areas: the Palace, the official residence of the Civil Governor, and the Military Area, which currently houses the Command of the Madeira Military Zone and a museum with a vast collection of weapons. The Palácio de S. Lourenço was classified as a National Monument in 1943. Its architecture combines military, Manueline and Mannerist styles, taking into account the changes it has undergone over time. Today, it is the Official Residence of the Representative of the Republic."