Funchal Old Town

On my last full day in Madeira, I was keen to fit in as much as I could. It was also quite a bit warmer than previously. Rather than hanging around waiting for a bus, I took a taxi to the Mercado dos Lavradores, the large central market:

We could look down on the fish market from a balcony:

The black skinned scabbard fish had huge eyes and sharp teeth:


Tuna and swordfish:


There seemed to be more tourists taking photos than genuine buyers!

The flowers were beautiful:

Next, it was time to visit the Cathedral, an unusual building in black and white:

There was a service going on, so I sat down for a rest, listening to the sermon in Portuguese, not understanding a word:

The intricately carved ceiling and choir stalls rate a mention in the guide book:

I was surprised to be asked twice to remove my hat. Usually in other countries, it’s the men who have to do this.

I strolled round the town centre, and happened upon this Barcelo Hotel, sister to the one I’m staying at:

I asked if I could look around, and they even suggested that I should go up to the top floor and see the swimming pool. It was heated (unlike ours at the Allegro). This is the view of the Cathedral tower from the pool deck;


All in all, I concluded that the Barcelo Old Town is much more stylish and exclusive, with fewer rooms, but costing far more than I’m paying at the Allegro.

I enjoyed lunch at a cafe opposite, where I actually sat outside: first time this holiday. A quartet of musicians entertained us:

This was my lunch. The veggies were NOT al dente for a change, just as I like them!