São João do Pico Fortress

The exact date, when the construction of this fortress was first started, is not yet known. Although, it is believed that the construction had already begun in 1606, the fortress was only finished during the second half of the 17^th century. At around that time its name was also changed to São Filipe, then in the 19^th century to São Miguel and later back to São João again.

In the 20^th century the fortress was ceded to the Navy, which installed their communications centre here. Classified monument of public interest in 1943, this fortress offers a magnificent view over Funchal to all those who made it up the steep alley!