The place and its history
São Vicente has a long history that is closely linked to the island’s natural and geological features. The village was founded shortly after the discovery of Madeira in the 15th century; the fertile soil and proximity to the sea made the village an important center for agriculture and trade. Sugar cane played a central role in the early days, later São Vicente was known for its wines. The Igreja de São Vicente, built in the 17th century, is one of the oldest buildings in the village.
Over the centuries, São Vicente developed into a popular destination for travelers who wanted to enjoy the tranquillity of the north coast and the beauty of the landscape. The village’s favorable location at the mouth of the Ribeira de São Vicente, surrounded by impressive mountains with green slopes, still contributes to its appeal today.
Right by the sea: the chapel of St. Vincent
The chapel of São Vicente is located in the estuary of the river “Ribeira de São Vicente” and was built at the end of the 17th century (around 1694) in a single basalt block. According to tradition, the martyr St. Vincent is said to have appeared here to the astonished inhabitants of São Vicente.
In the valley of São Vicente: The lava caves and the volcanism center
Unfortunately, this entire complex is currently closed to visitors due to renovation work. This is a great pity, as the Grutas de São Vicente, the local lava caves, are a fascinating testimony to Madeira’s volcanic past. Around 890,000 years ago, a volcanic eruption formed the tubes that are now accessible as caves. They are part of an underground network consisting of lava tunnels left behind by cooled lava. Visitors can learn more about the formation of Madeira here.
The Volcanism Center, located right next to the caves, offers interactive exhibitions about the island’s geological processes.
The caves and the information center are due to reopen in 2025.
Rota da Cal – An insight into lime processing
The Rota da Cal, the “lime path”, is a lesser-known place in São Vicente. This historic route leads to the old lime kilns that were once used to process limestone. Lime was an important raw material for construction and agriculture.
The route offers a mixture of history and nature, as it leads through idyllic landscapes with magnificent views of the mountains and the sea. For me, it is a relaxing and mystical place.
