The Jardim Tropical Monte Palace Tropical Garden
From the elevator we go up to the historic quarter of Monte. We are visiting the botanical garden, which leaves me speechless. Yes, even me, who translates colloquially from Russian: „I never need to search for words“... Usually, I find something to say.
As a small aside – a synonym for Madeira is „Floating Garden“. Besides an abundance of flora, here everything you „stick“ meaning plant—survives, thrives, and grows huge. And now try to imagine Monte Palace Tropical Garden, which is a true feast for the eyes and is renowned as the most famous...
Madeira is full of wonderful parks. So huge that in the time of one vacation it is impossible to visit everything. (You will discover: botanical, laurel forest park, natural tropical forest, and so on and so forth.)
The tropical garden is located at the top of Mount Monte, whose slopes are densely built up with houses of the capital Funchal. The easiest way to get to the park is by taking the ski lift, which is located on the promenade close to the center.
Everything is perfectly organized.
Along the paths, everywhere around you, there are flowers.
The landscaping is tasteful, with the traditions of the island.
The lift is a unique 15-minute attraction, because in good weather, you will see the entire city in the palm of your hand, the ocean, and the ships waiting at anchor – you will take pictures and enjoy the scenery and the hilly expanse for a full 3,700 meters.
By purchasing the park ticket, you receive a map featuring interest-based routes.
For example, for flora and fauna enthusiasts, or for those who love history and art. Or a combined option—including both the first and the second. Of course, all of them vary in duration and geographical scope.
What you will discover in Monte Palace
You will discover a small animal corner with birds, where you can have a wonderful rest, especially if you are with small children.
You can enjoy a unique exhibition of South African art, which you can read about in the travelogue
If you are a stone lover—the island is volcanic, and in a special hall you will discover an exhibition of geological finds: from unique crystals to fossils. The collection includes incredible specimens gathered from all over the world and especially from South Africa.
The last two are becoming permanent exhibitions and are not a coincidence or a whim. They are connected to the life of the park's owner.I will tell about him in the second part of the story – here/
There is a wonderful church right by the park „Our Lady of Mount“. On August 15, pilgrims climb 74 steps to enter the church. There is the sarcophagus of the last Austrian emperor. Charles I, who lived on the island following his exile in 1921.
Set aside at least half a day.
While resting, visit the bar where you can refresh yourself with the famous Madeira wine. For this purpose, you will find a coupon as a bonus in your ticket package. Personally, I tried it a few times, but I am not thrilled with it. It comes in two types: a lighter amber one and a rich brown one, closer to a light cognac or strong vermouth.
The History of Portugal on Ceramic Tiles
From the park entrance, a spacious alley begins, framed on both sides up to the central lake with ceramic panels depicting heroic Portuguese history. This livelier section is „occupied“ by elderly couples. A perfectly paved path with the region's typical sharp and rounded pebbles, tightly arranged next to each other along its length, is clearly preferred by them.
The history of Portugal on glazed ceramic tiles looks like a colorful „comic strip“ – even without knowing the language, it becomes clear who „birthed“ whom, who poisoned or stabbed whom, who conquered whom, and who ultimately buried whom. There are also signs in two languages – Portuguese and English.
But I was quite well-prepared from my trip to Portugal a few years ago, and above all, from my sheer luck of ending up in a group whose tour guide was a protodeacon. Lyubomir Bratoev – unique encyclopedist and having an excellent knowledge of the history of this interesting and, for Bulgaria, „distant“ country.
Wall mosaics – ceramic tiles typical of Portugal with historical subjects, floral motifs, – whimsical drawings, in the style of „Azulejo“ - Azulejo - literal translation „polished stone“ - fit perfectly into the lush vegetation. A lot can be written about the style. Besides its aesthetic beauty, with elements of Arabic influence, it served as a kind of thermometer for keeping the houses cool.
In summary, for fans of specifics: walking through the garden, you can enjoy a collection of ceramic tiles (dating from the 15th all the way to the 20th century), panels of 166 glazed terracotta tiles, entitled „The Portuguese Adventure in Japan“ and a group of 40 panels depicting the history of Portugal, including the most important events of the kingdoms and republics.
The gardens I love
The park is renowned as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. I agree. Gardens around the world are a weakness of mine, and I have plenty to write and talk about because wherever I arrive, I set aside special time to visit the local "best of the best". /For example, in Dubai – The Magic Garden or Singapore Botanic Gardens - upcoming/
In it, you will find ponds with aquatic plants. Some are purposely made marshy, while in others crystal clear water gushes...
In which swim huge red, yellow, and silvery ornamental fish.
Black and white swans walk proudly. Peacocks strut along the shores. Their favorite habitat is near the Pavilion of the Four Elements.
In the Japanese section of the garden, dense bamboo plantings welcome you.
To be continued
See more for the author Maria Radeva here
You can see the gallery here:
