Saint Lawrence Fortress and Palace

Among the uncountable things to do and to see in Funchal, the remarkable Palácio de São Lourenço (Saint Lawrence Fortress) – 16 -17th century – is worth a visit.

The fortress was a former residence of the Donee Commissioners and the governors of the Island and the “Palace” designation arose when the grand floor and its magnificent rooms were built in the 18th century.

In 1836 the palace was divided into two parts: a civil and a military part. The western wing was assigned to the civil governor and, since 1976, it became the official residence of the Minister of the Republic for the Autonomous Region of Madeira. The east wing now hosts a military museum.

The palace allows us to step back in time as the rooms show the modern taste of its period. The most imposing room is the Ball room, where in former times, many Madeiran balls were held. Nowadays the ballroom hosts a series of concerts.

Some wall and ceiling panels were painted by Max Römer, a German artist who arrived in Madeira in the twenties created impressive paintings for 38 years, finding inspiration in the richness of Madeira’s farmlands and seas.