A Brief History

The first references about Madeira archipelago date back to 14th century in the Dulcert chart (1339) and in Libro del Conoscimiento de todos los Reynos (Book of Knowledge of all Kingdoms). The islands were indicated by the names of Legname, Porto Santo and Deserte.

Although there are several versions of discovery of the islands, there is no doubt that it is linked to great Portuguese Discoveries. In order to explore West African cost, also known as Moroccan coastline,the archipelago was discovered by João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira in 1419 under the orders of Infante Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator). These two captains arrived to the island and named it Porto Santo. In the following year, they returned to Madeira Island and took possession of it on behalf of the Portuguese crown.

In 1497, Madeira archipelago was organized into three captaincies by Dom Manuel, namely Funchal, Machico and Porto Santo, in order to start settlements. People of minor nobility were transported to the island.The new comers began agricultural activities and learned to live on their own sustenance. Sugarcane cultivation and the sugar production industry developed until the 17th century and starting from 17th century Madeira started exporting wine and sugar to other countries. Due to its strategic position on a major shipping route, Madeira became an important trading post, linking Portugal with its colonies in Africa and Latin America. Starting from 1807, following British occupation on on wine trade, Madeira wine became very popular. Today Anglo-Madeiran affluent families still can be found on the island. However, majority of the population is Portuguese descent.

Following the democratic revolution of 1974, Portugal granted political autonomy to Madeira in 1976. The Islands now have their own government and flag.