Santana on Madeira is renowned for its iconic triangular, thatched-roof houses, which have become a beloved symbol of the region. These houses, with their distinctive design, reflect a rich cultural heritage and a history of rural craftsmanship that has been preserved over the centuries. The village itself is set against a backdrop of lush landscapes and is part of a municipality that’s recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—a testament to its environmental and cultural significance.

The traditional houses of Santana, known as Casas de Santana, are one of Madeira’s most iconic landmarks. These charming triangular houses with thatched roofs date back centuries and were originally built by local farmers using wood, straw, and stone—materials readily available on the island.

Key Features:

• Triangular Shape: The steeply pitched roof helps rainwater drain efficiently
• Thatched Roof: Made from wheat or rye straw, providing natural insulation
• Bright Colors: Typically painted in white, red, and blue, adding to their picturesque appeal.
• Compact Design: Traditionally, they had a single ground floor for living space and an attic for storing crops.

While these houses were once common across Madeira, today they are mostly preserved for tourism and cultural heritage. Some have been restored to showcase traditional island life, and visitors can explore them in Santana’s town center

References

• VisitMadeira
• PortugalTravelGuide
• VisitMadeira - Casas de Santana
• PinningTheWorld

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"Engenhos do Norte" literally translates to **"North Mills"** or **"Mills of the North"** in English. In this context, the term "engenho" refers to a traditional mill or factory—specifically one associated with sugar cane processing and rum production. The descriptor "do Norte" simply means "of the North," indicating its geographical location in the north of Madeira, Portugal.

This historic site, originally established in 1927, remains a testament to Madeira's rich cultural and industrial heritage. It showcases the traditional production process of sugar cane brandy (often referred to as rum), using machinery and methods that date back to the Industrial Revolution.

Madeira’s relationship with sugarcane dates back to the 16th century, when the island became one of the world’s leading producers of sugar, often referred to as "white gold". Over the centuries, sugarcane production evolved, but Engenhos do Norte remained a key player in preserving traditional rum-making techniques. It is now one of the three remaining mills still active on the island.

In 2013, the distillery was acquired by J. Faria & Filhos, ensuring its continued operation and modernization while maintaining its historical essence. Interestingly, it is the only distillery in Europe that still uses steam-powered machinery, a rare nod to the Industrial Revolution.

The name "Porto da Cruz" directly translates to "Port of the Cross" in English. This designation originates from the early navigators who, upon discovering this picturesque location in Madeira, affixed a cross on the shoreline to mark the port for subsequent ocean travelers.

This act of placing a cross not only provided a navigational landmark but also imbued the area with a symbolic presence that has endured through the centuries. Today, Porto da Cruz is recognized as a charming parish in the municipality of Machico, celebrated for its rich history, rugged natural beauty, and its continuing legacy as a port town on the island of Madeira.

References

• 1. visitmadeira
• 2. RumPorter
• 3. rummadeira
• 4. Portugal
• 5. Wikipedia
• 6. backpackersintheworld

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