The name of the city of Funchal derives from the plant Foeniculum vulgare, the fennel plant. Reports from the time show us that when disembarking on the island, the first sight was that of a valley dense with trees and fennel, an essential plant in regional gastronomy and sweets.

Despite the abundance of fennel, it was sugar that provided for the formation of a sustainableeconomy in the city of Funchal and throughout the island. Madeira wine succeeded sugar, becoming today one of the region's ex-libris. The production of sugar and vines in the city of Funchal are essential for the local economy, and their icons are incorporated into the city's coat of arms.

Funchal was one of the first captaincies of the island of Madeira, having as its captain João Gonçalves Zarco - one of the main navigators who discovered the archipelago -, who, in 1425, settled in the city with his family. The development of Funchal quickly allowed it to pass fromautonomous parishes to a town and, later, to a municipality, becoming a city in 1508. In 1835, due to its growth and the degree of prosperity, the city of Funchal developed to its limits that you have today.

The city of Funchal has become a key trading point in the center of the Atlantic, allowing for commercial exchanges, culture and experiences. From this port on the Atlantic, exports of regional products to the world are carried out, products that are still appreciated today.

Funchal is unique for its diversity, from the sea to the mountains, from fruits to flowers and fromembroidery to basket carts, all influenced by its tropical climate, which allows for uniqueproductions and activities.