São Tiago Fort (Yellow Fort)

You think you're entering the restaurant then you have this lovely surprise! A yellow fort with amazing views and different levels even

Great views from its battlements ...Free entry ...Enjoy we did 👍

The Fortaleza de São Tiago in Funchal was built in the 17th century to protect the city and port from pirate attacks.

Until the early 1990s, the fortress served exclusively for military purposes.

Today it houses the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museu de Arte Contemporânea), which shows works by renowned Portuguese artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

In addition to the exhibitions, many other cultural events also take place.

The Restaurante do Forte, which is part of the fortress and is often used for larger celebrations such as weddings, is highly recommended.

When we were there cool 😎 oldtimers were standing in the entrance!

Great place to wander around with lots of lovely views even on a grey wet day.

It's a lovely part of the world, well worth a visit.

Just a short walk from the centre of Funchal, this cliff side fortress has an ambience set in its historic times and in its defence of Corsairs who sailed in the 17th century Ocean. Certainly stood the tests of time in its solid construction, and served the local community in times of disaster. Interesting place

If it isn’t free when you visit - do not pay more than €2 a person. There is nothing inside, no plaques to read, art to admire, etc. it’s just an empty yellow fort.

That being said, it’s a fun empty yellow fort if you’re into exploring it’s different staircases, levels, and bright yellow walls. We enjoyed just wandering around and enjoying the sunshine and views.

Santiago Fortress in Funchal is a must-visit historical landmark in Madeira. Perched on a hillside, this fortress offers captivating views of the city and its surrounding mountains and ocean.

Dating back to the 17th century, the fortress held strategic importance in defending the port of Funchal. Today, it stands not only as a historical monument but also as a significant tourist attraction that allows visitors to delve into the rich history of the region.

Visitors can stroll along the ancient fortress walls, enjoying panoramic vistas of the city and nature. The inner courtyard of the fortress is adorned with picturesque gardens, providing a serene setting to relax under the shade of trees or embark on a leisurely walk through the greenery.

Inside the fortress, you'll find the Museum of Contemporary Art of Funchal, where visitors can explore the works of local artists and experience the vibrant art scene of Madeira.

After touring the fortress, take a leisurely walk through the streets of Funchal's Old Town, where you'll find a multitude of restaurants, cafés, and shops offering local goods and crafts.

Santiago Fortress in Funchal not only impresses with its architecture and history but also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding nature. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the past while enjoying the beauty of the present.

Beautiful small fortress and a nice rocky beach, with a relatively small number of tourists. Also a friendly doggy has lived there for years, remember to give him a tasty treat when you pass by :)

I recommend walking down the harbor until you get to this and point of a beautiful site of this fortress. Around sunset was a beautiful time to go. Even though it rained the waves were crashing against the side of the building. We stood there for some time watching this lovely scenery.

Not in the best condition but what can you expect after 400+ years - great walkabout with stunning views… worth the visit…

Lovely historic place, easy to explore, also with a smaller exhibition. Entrance fee was 3 Euros, but it's worth it for the views and the feeling of getting lost in the small labyrinth of the building. It might require a bit of a restoration, hope this will be done later.
The color is in amazing contrast with the sea and thr landscape and there's a really nice view of the sea and Funchal from the top.

It is located in the old town of Funchal and will cost you €3 to get in. There is nothing much about its history as you wander around but being a coastal fort you can guess as to its history. The views are stunning of the ocean, the old town and the port. It was bot busy when we went to morning. There is also a restaurant in the grounds which we did not stop at. A must do when in Funchal.

Perfect location to watch amazing sunsets.

Great for a lovely view of the city and port, no information on its history but looking round for free, who can complain.

Really nice fort. You can go up 2 storey asnd get a really nice view over Funchal or the ocean. Also it is completely free.

Went to a Christmas Craft Market. All sorts there. Even entertainment

A historical fort with relaxed athmosphere a Restaurant and a beautiful sea view. Free entrance.

I didnt have time to go in, but walked around the sides and read some if the history at the front entrance, it's a few Euros for entrance so it's not bad.

The best diamond spot to have a 360 view for new years Fireworks.