Santana

Santana is a northern municipality in Madeira featuring steep valleys and several parishes spread along the Atlantic coast. The Madeira Theme Park showcases exhibits about island heritage with demonstrations of regional customs and historical objects.

The settlement was founded in 1835 and received city status in 2000 as it transformed from an agricultural region into a regional tourism center. This shift reflects the growing importance of the area to the island's economy.

Traditional triangular houses with thatched roofs, white walls, red doors, and blue trim define the local character, built by farming families who settled here generations ago. These homes shape the village appearance and tell the story of rural island life.

The terrain is hilly and sturdy footwear is recommended, especially if exploring local paths and traditional village areas. Plan time for walks through the valleys and around the settlement to experience the landscape properly.

Maintaining the traditional thatched roofs requires complete replacement every four to five years to preserve their original form. This labor-intensive process shows local commitment to keeping their building traditions alive.