Capela de Santa Catarina (Chapel of Saint Catherine), Funchal

The charming Chapel of Saint Catherine (Capela de Santa Catarina) is a little church situated in Santa Catarina Park (Parque de Santa Catarina), a vast verdant area in Funchal.

Dating back to the 15th century, the church was initially built using wood and is thought to be the first-ever church constructed on the island. The founder, Constança Rodrigues, was the wife of João Gonçalves Zarco (1390-1471), one of the earliest explorers to settle on the island and the inaugural captain of Funchal.

In the 16th century, the current stone church was erected, featuring a stone font and a bell that both display unique elements of Manueline's design. The chapel is currently part of Santa Catarina Park and is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments in Madeira. The park also includes various aviaries and stone monuments that commemorate the refugees from Gibraltar who arrived during World War II.

Today, the building retains remnants of its original structure, adorned in white with a stunning cross atop. Throughout the years, the Chapel of Saint Catherine has transformed into a significant tourist attraction and an essential aspect of Funchal's cultural and historical heritage.