Praça do Município (Municipal Square), Funchal

The center of the square is a pedestrianized area paved with dark and light Batistini tiles in wave patterns. In the center of the square is a fountain spire towering above a wide overflowing basin. Auto traffic and parking are allowed in a street surrounding the Square.

The square is the most notable public area in Funchal. It is lined with fine historic buildings. There is the 18th century Town Hall, the 17th century Church of Saint John the Evangelist, the Museum of Sacred Art housed in the 16th century Episcopal Palace, and the former Jesuits College of Funchal, now the rectory of the University of Madeira.

The square often serves as a ceremonial space, especially in the Christmas season. Light shows, concerts, demonstrations and dances are frequent events. There are admirable views of the surrounding hills. The vistas change with weather and time of day.

The black and white paving stones are accented here and there with the red blossoms that fall from the nearby tulip trees. Behind the Museum of Sacred Art is the often visited Museum Cafe with its restful patio and tempting food.