Sé Catedral do Funchal (Funchal Cathedral), Funchal (must see)

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in the city of Funchal on the Atlantic-bound island of Madeira had not fared well. The exterior volcanic tuff masonry had severe moisture damage, and the roof tiles leaked. Interior woodwork needed cleaning and repair. Restoration began in 2000. The cathedral was reopened to the public by 2014.

The Cathedral, dedicated in 1514, is among the few buildings that have lasted more or less unscathed since the early colonization of the island of Madeira. It is designed as a Gothic structure. It has three naves. It was put together using massive volcanic rocks quarried in the cliffs of nearby Cape Girao. The facades are white with stone corners.

The cathedral roof is cedar, carved Mudejar style. The choir is wood. The choir stalls display images of the the prophets and disciples in 16th century raiment. Detailed carvings show winged cherubs toting fruit and wine in skin bottles. The cathedral has a massive silver cross donated by Portuguese King Manuel I.

Outside of the cathedral is a statue of Pope John Paul II. He visited madeira in 1991. The Cathedral was designed in the 1490s by architects Paro Anes and Gil Enes. The building was basically complete in 1514. The bell tower and spire were finished by 1517.