Funchal Statues ⋆ Lifeguin

Explore the fascinating statues of Funchal

As we started our waddle around Funchal, after a while, our attention was caught by all the different statues we encountered in our exploration of the city. The more we waddled, the more interesting the statues became, and in this post, we are mentioning the ones you should be aware of while exploring the capital of Madeira. So put on your waddle shoes, and let’s explore.

Statue of Austrian Empress Sissi

This statue is a historical landmark that enriches the Madeiran cultural panorama and was created by Lagoa Henriques. This life-size bronze statue, placed in the Casino Park Resort Hotel gardens, aims to make the passage of the Empress of Austria through Madeira Island even better known and perpetuate her memory.

Cristiano Ronaldo Statue

This statue was designed by contemporary sculptor Ricardo Velosa in 2014 as a tribute to the Madeiran footballer, who has won numerous titles, including the best footballer in the world. It is located in front of the CR7 Museum.

Monument to the Madeiran Businessman

This statue was erected in 2001 by sculptor Martim Velosa to pay tribute to the business community of Madeira Island, which has thrived through various economies over a span of 500 years.

Football Player Statue

The Football Player Monument is a statue located in the Jardim do Campo Almirante Reis. It pays tribute to all the people who played football in one of the first football fields in Funchal, which used to be located in this garden. The monument was built in 2005 by sculptor Martim Velosa.

Statue of João Gonçalves Zarco

The statue of João Gonçalves Zarco, a historical figure of great importance to the island of Madeira, was created by sculptor Francisco Franco in 1927. Zarco discovered the island under the command of D. Henrique and was later appointed as the first Captain Donatory of the city of Funchal.

Christopher Columbus Monument

Henrique Moreira built this monument in 1940 to honor Christopher Columbus, who resided in Funchal between 1475 and 1492.

Rotunda do Infante Fountain

The Rotunda do Infante Fountain is a sculpture in front of the Infante D. Henrique statue. It was constructed during the mandate of President Dr. Fernão de Ornelas as part of the city remodeling works in 1945. This ensemble was designed by the architect Faria da Costa and sculpted by António Duarte.

Monumento ao Emigrante Madeirense

This large statue is one of the prominent landmarks along the waterfront on Avenida do Mar e das Comunidades. It depicts a man kneeling and holding a sphere above his head, paying homage to all the Madeiran emigrants. It is an eye-catching sight when strolling along the avenue.

Plastic Grouper

In 2018, the regional government organized a clean-up campaign on Madeira Island, during which locals, mainly fishermen, collected thousands of pounds of garbage from the waters. Portuguese street artist Artur Bordalo, also known as Bordalo II, recycled a small portion of the plastic waste to create a bright-colored sculpture called “Plastic Mero.” The sculpture symbolizes the negative impact of overconsumption and highlights the importance of recycling and reducing waste.

Nelson Mandela Memorial

A monument dedicated to Nelson Mandela was inaugurated on July 26, 2018, on his hundredth birthday. The Nelson Mandela Memorial is an interesting and beautiful contemporary art in the park. It is colorful and vibrant, and the lighting conditions create an opportunity to take some cool pictures in the morning.

Henry the Navigator Statue

Another notable figure from Portugal’s Age of Discovery, Henry the Navigator, is honored with a striking statue near the waterfront. Henry’s legacy is commemorated in this elegant monument as one of the driving forces behind Portugal’s maritime exploration.

Jozef Pilsudski sculpture

The statue in front of the newly opened Barceló Hotel in Funchal is in perfect condition and adorned with fresh flowers.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Funchal, make sure to see the various statues scattered across the city. Wander through Funchal’s streets, where every statue tells a story waiting to be heard.

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