Festa da Senhora do Monte: the great August pilgrimage
Madeira’s biggest religious festival on 14 and 15 August: the pilgrimage up the steps to the Monte church, the procession, the arraial and how to visit.
15 August is a public holiday in Madeira.
On 15 August Madeira honours its patron saint, Nossa Senhora do Monte, Our Lady of the Mount. It is the island’s most important religious festival, and the night before, thousands of people climb to Monte to keep vigil at the church.
What happens
- 14 August, the night before: pilgrims walk up from Funchal to Monte, some climbing the long flight of steps to the church on their knees to keep a promise. The streets around the church become a huge arraial, with music, stalls, espetada, bolo do caco and poncha, until late at night.
- 15 August, the feast day: masses through the day and a solemn procession with the statue of Our Lady through the streets of Monte.
The church
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte, with its white and black façade at the top of a long flight of steps, is also where the last emperor of Austria, Charles I, is buried; he died in exile on the island in 1922.
How to visit
- Getting there: the cable car from the old town, a bus or a taxi, or on foot like the pilgrims. Roads are closed and very busy, so avoid driving.
- When: the evening of the 14th for the atmosphere, the morning of the 15th for the procession.
- Respect: it is a religious festival. Dress modestly in the church and give way to pilgrims.
Good to know
15 August is a public holiday; many shops close. August is also the hottest month; bring water for the climb. See Madeira in August.