Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Fort of Our Lady of the Conception), Funchal

The Fort of Our Lady of the Conception, also known as the Islet Fortress, was built to enhance the defenses of Funchal and safeguard trade at the harbor from pirate assaults. Although the need for a fortification had been felt since the mid-15th century, it was only in 1654 that construction began, based on a blueprint designed by Bartolomeu João, the royal master builder. Initially round-shaped, the fortress was primarily utilized as a registry for vessels arriving at the port of Funchal.

In 1670, the fortress garrison requested the construction of a chapel, which was erected together with a cistern in 1687. By 1703, it was decided that the fort should be reshaped to accommodate more artillery.

In the mid-19th century, the fortress underwent improvements, including the construction of a large storehouse and the installation of a crane. Later that century, the harbor's wall was extended, connecting the islet to Madeira. In the 20th century, during port expansion works, a tunnel was excavated inside the islet, providing access to the rest of the pier.

During the 1950s, the military occupied the fort and expanded the existing buildings, such as the barracks and the command building. The military presence ended in the 1970s, marking the conclusion of the fortress's long military career.

In 1992, the building was handed over to the Autonomous Region of Madeira, which initiated a renovation project led by architect José Luís Meneses, winner of the Town Hall of Funchal's Heritage Recuperation award in 1998. At that time, the space was first explored as a restaurant, the first of several attempts to transform it into a destination for food and nightlife.

The most recent rehabilitation efforts have left the islet looking as it does today, preserving parts of the previous phases of construction. Currently, the site houses the Design Centre, owned by renowned Madeiran interior designer Nini Andrade Silva, which includes an exhibition area and a restaurant. The view from the fortress provides a breathtaking panorama of Funchal, encompassing the entire bay and amphitheater, which are characteristic of this beautiful city.