Walking throughout the city of Funchal, I would like to call your attention to our pavements.

This technique of paving as a craft is believed to have originated in Mesopotamia, where rocky materials were used inside and outside constructions, passing throughout both Ancient Greece and  Rome.

Called “Calçada Portuguesa” (Portuguese pavement) it can be found in many pedestrian areas such as sidewalks, squares and atriums, all over Portugal and in the old Portuguese colonies such as Brazil and Macau. It consists of small flat stones of basalt and limestone displayed like a mosaic.

It is a work of Art made by our “calceteiros” in many beautiful different patterns, which are in harmony with the surrounding areas. The variety of pavements can vary from historical, geometrical, floral, maritime to regional themes.

Silvia Dória (Official Tourist Guide)

Photo Courtesy of Marla Castro