BWB – First known landing on Madeira

The first known landing on Madeira took place in 1419 on the south coast of the island, most likely in what is now the Bay of Machico. Portuguese sailors led by João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira were blown off course by a strong storm during a sea voyage. While searching for shelter, they accidentally reached the previously uninhabited island of Madeira. The sheltered location of the Bay of Machico proved to be an ideal anchorage, as it offered relatively calm waters and made it easier for the ships to land safely.

Machico is therefore regarded as the site of the first landing and the starting point of the settlement of Madeira. Shortly after the discovery, the Portuguese began to explore the surrounding land and establish the first settlement structures. Fertile soils, the availability of fresh water, and the favorable location supported early agricultural use. Machico quickly developed into an important base for the exploration and development of the island.

In the following decades, however, Madeira’s economic and political center gradually shifted westward. Funchal offered better conditions for a larger harbor and gained importance through growing trade, particularly in sugarcane. Nevertheless, Machico remains of great historical significance, as it marks the beginning of Madeira’s history as a settled island and the first connection between the island and the outside world.

© Photo by Wikipedia

By Fatima Kutzschbach