Monte
is a village located at 600 to 800 meters above sea level with the church Nossa Senhora do Monte above the island capital Funchal on the Portuguese island Madeira. A gondola lift takes you up there. The best way for tourists to get down is by toboggan ride.
The pilgrimage church of Nossa Senhora do Monte
IIn the church, built around 1741, there is a small statue of the Blessed Virgin in a silver shrine at the high altar. Here the islanders worship their patron saint.
In the left aisle is the coffin of the last Emperor of Austria, Charles I. He was sent into exile to Madeira after World War I, where he lived with his family in the Quinta Gordon mansion above the church until his death in 1922.
The Madonna in the silver shrine at the main altar has different robes
Near the church is one of the most beautiful gardens of Madeira,
the Jardim do Monte Palace.
In it, along winding walkways, a variety of tropical and subtropical plants can be admired alongside native flora. Japanese and oriental gardens, as well as ponds and fountains, are complemented by sculptures and azulejos (blue painted ceramic tiles).
toboggan ride
Hundreds of tourists do not want to miss this attraction, although it costs 30€ for two people. That means queuing! There is only half the distance to Livramento. Cabs are waiting there and the two men in their traditional white costumes want a tip and the obligatory photo also costs 10€. An expensive fun, but it is worth it!
