Convento de Santa Clara

Convento de Santa Clara in Funchal is one of the oldest religious complexes on Madeira and the resting place of the man who opened the island to Portuguese settlement. It stands in the historic part of the city, and its story reaches back to the 15th century.

Who founded it, and why?

The whole complex grew from a primitive church commissioned by João Gonçalves Zarco, the discoverer of Madeira and first captain-donatary of Funchal. It was meant to serve as a family tomb. The convent proper was founded on the initiative of his son, João Gonçalves da Câmara, the second captain-donatary. He wanted to provide a refuge for his daughters and for other women who wished to follow the monastic life.

Construction began in 1492, and the first nuns entered in 1497. The space was enlarged toward the end of the 15th century, so the building today shows architectural and artistic elements from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries.

What is there to see?

From the original construction, a Gothic marble portal survives, along with the tombs of Zarco and his family: his wife, son, daughter and son-in-law. This is where the discoverer of Madeira rests, which makes the site a key stop for anyone interested in the beginnings of settlement on the island.

A visit takes you through:

• the entrance atrium,
• the Chapel of São Gonçalo de Amarante,
• the porch giving access to the choirs,
• the Gothic cloister,
• the lower choir (Coro de Baixo),
• the upper choir (Coro de Cima).

Gothic work combined with later additions makes the complex a compact lesson in Madeiran architectural history.

What is its heritage status?

Convento de Santa Clara has been a National Monument of Portugal since 1943. Its historical and artistic value places it among the most important landmarks in Funchal.

How do I plan a visit?

The convent is in Funchal at coordinates 32.650525 N, 16.913103 W, within walking distance of the old town centre. Allow about an hour, especially if you want to take your time with the tombs, the cloister and both choirs. Check opening hours and ticket prices with official Funchal or Madeira tourism sources before you go, as they can change with the season.

Frequently asked questions

Who is buried at Convento de Santa Clara? João Gonçalves Zarco, the discoverer of Madeira, and members of his family: his wife, son, daughter and son-in-law.

When was the convent built? Construction began in 1492 and the first nuns arrived in 1497. The original church had already been commissioned by Zarco.

Is it a protected monument? Yes, it has been a National Monument of Portugal since 1943.

Which architectural styles will I see? Elements from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries, including a Gothic portal and a Gothic cloister.

How long should I allow? About an hour is enough to see the atrium, chapel, cloister, choirs and tombs.