With an area of 81.50 km² and a population of 43,005, the municipality of Madeira Island is divided into 5 parishes. Located in the northern and western parts of the island, it is bordered by the municipality of Machico to the north and west, while the capital city, Funchal, lies to the west. To the southeast, it has coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the Desertas Islands, situated a few kilometers southeast of Madeira Island, also fall within this municipality.
For those visiting the region for the first time, it’s worth mentioning that the Madeira Airport is located in this municipality, providing convenient access for international travelers.
The name of the municipality, Santa Cruz, originates from the discovery of the island. When the explorers first arrived here, they saw some old tree stumps that had been knocked down by time. The captain decided to make a cross out of one of these stumps and hung it on top of a tree, giving the place the name Santa Cruz, which means Holy Cross. To commemorate the construction of this cross, a marble cruzeiro (a type of stone cross) was erected on the spot, but unfortunately, it was destroyed in 1889.
The village of Santa Cruz, located within this municipality, is one of the oldest settlements on the entire island, dating back to the early 15th century.
As for nearby attractions and facilities, visitors will find a variety of options. In addition to the beautiful coastline and picturesque landscapes, there are several beaches in the area where you can relax and soak up the sun. The nearby Machico municipality offers stunning hiking trails, such as the Ponta de São Lourenço, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and the cliffs.
For those interested in exploring the city life, Funchal, the capital city of Madeira Island, is just a short drive away. Here, you can indulge in excellent restaurants, visit historical sites like the Funchal Cathedral, and stroll through botanical gardens like the famous Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
With easy access to the airport and a plethora of nearby attractions, Santa Cruz and the surrounding region in Madeira Island offer a fantastic base for experiencing the beauty and charm of this unique Portuguese destination.
