Legislative Assembly of Madeira, Regional parliament in Funchal, Portugal
The Legislative Assembly of Madeira is a regional parliament with 47 elected deputies meeting in a restored customs building in Funchal. The space serves as the center for debating and passing regional laws.
The assembly was created in 1976 and began work in the Old General Board building. In 1987 it moved to its current location in the restored customs building.
The building houses the Chapel of Santo António da Mouraria from 1714, blending religious heritage with legislative use in a way that feels woven into the space. Visitors notice how this older sanctuary sits quietly within the working parliament.
Visiting typically requires advance notice, and the building may be busy during legislative sessions. It is best to check availability beforehand to arrange a guided tour or casual visit.
The building was originally a customs house later converted to house the parliament. This adaptive reuse shows how older structures in Funchal were reimagined for new public purposes.
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