Santa Catarina Park

Santa Catarina Park (Parque de Santa Catarina) is a large public garden in the middle of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. It sits on a slope above the harbour, between Avenida do Infante and Avenida Sá Carneiro, and covers roughly 36,000 square metres. For many visitors it is the first green stop after leaving the waterfront, since the city centre and the marina are only a short walk away.

Where is Santa Catarina Park and how do you get there?

The park lies in central Funchal, at about 32.6457 N, 16.9141 W. It stretches between two of the city's main avenues, so it is easy to reach on foot from the port, the hotel area and the old town. Because it occupies a hillside, the paths open up views over Funchal Bay, the harbour and the Atlantic.

What is the history of the park?

The park as it exists today dates from around 1960. Before that, from 1837, the land held the Nossa Senhora das Angústias cemetery. During the Second World War the burial ground was relocated to São Martinho, where it still operates under the same name. The vacated site was then turned into public green space.

The park takes its name from the Chapel of Santa Catarina (Capela de Santa Catarina), which it surrounds. The chapel goes back to 1425 and is regarded as the first religious building constructed on Madeira. It is the historical anchor of the whole site and a good reason to visit beyond a simple stroll.

What is there to see in the park?

• A lake with swans and ducks – a calm spot in the middle of the park, popular with families.
• Fountains – they add a cooling touch on hot days.
• Flower beds – carefully maintained, with colourful displays for much of the year.
• Statue of Christopher Columbus – it faces Funchal Bay and is one of many statues and monuments on the island.
• Playground – makes the park a practical stop with children.
• Santa Catarina Chapel – the oldest element of the site, set among greenery.

Walking paths wind through the grounds, and trees provide shade over the benches. The park works as one of the city's green lungs: even at midday you can step away from the traffic and rest.

Who is the park for?

Santa Catarina Park suits a short break from sightseeing in Funchal. It works well for anyone wanting an easy walk with a view of the harbour, for families with small children, and for visitors who want to see the oldest chapel on the island along the way. It needs little planning: an hour is enough to follow the paths, look at the lake and pause at the viewpoints.

How to plan your visit

Combine the park with a walk along the waterfront and through the centre, as everything lies close together. Morning or late afternoon is the most pleasant time, when the sun is gentler and the light falls nicely on the bay. Bring a camera: the view of the harbour and the ships arriving in Funchal is a frequent subject of photos taken here. The park is public and open to walk into, and although it sits on a rise, so some stretches slope gently, most of it is easy to stroll.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Santa Catarina Park? In central Funchal, Madeira, between Avenida do Infante and Avenida Sá Carneiro, overlooking the harbour.

How big is the park? About 36,000 square metres, enough for a relaxed walk without needing many hours.

When was the park created? Around 1960, on the site of the former Nossa Senhora das Angústias cemetery, which had operated since 1837.

Why is it called Santa Catarina? After the Chapel of Santa Catarina, dating from 1425, around which the park was laid out. It is considered the first religious building on Madeira.

Is the park good for children? Yes. There is a playground, and the lake with swans and ducks usually holds the attention of younger visitors.

Is there a Columbus statue? Yes, a statue of Christopher Columbus stands in the park, looking out over Funchal Bay.