A short distance inland from the Funchal harbour, all roads become extremely steep as they gain a suprising amount of altitude over a short distance. They are narrow and windy and would be a joy to drive through if you enjoy clutch and handbrake mastery.
This photo was taken as we were heading to a viewpoint over the city (from which this photo was taken). Although the climbing was surprisingly tiring, the thought of a nice view kept my party and I going. It is this drive that makes us strive to get to unusual places; and once getting there, and after the transience of achievement has passed set our sights on loftier goals.
In many ways this is the same drive that pushes us all towards the tenuous promise of progress.
Canon EOS 350D with Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5
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A view of the eastern side of Funchal, the island of Madeira's captital. Funchal is ensconsed in an amphiteatre shaped bowl with high mountains and cliffs on all sides.
We had climbed up the steep roads and had reached Museo de Quinta das Cruzes when I spotted this scene. We decided to take a short break which allowed me to wait until the light highlighted the chuch.
Canon EOS 350D with Canon EF 70-200 f/4L
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Tags: madeira portugal city f:long textures square cities funchal camera:canon_350d
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Forte de Sao Joao do Pico was built in 1632 and offers a panoramic view over the town of Funchal and its bay. It stands just above the English Protestant Cemetary which was built in 1765.
The fort itself is also quite interesting, With its battlements dotted with benches and other means to enjoy the view -- or spot incoming enemies.
Canon EOS 350D with Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5
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On the slopy streets of Funchal almost evey view bubbles with intriguing character.
The walls are wrikled with age and pocked from copious collisions. Even the doors tell tales of countless days in the glare of the Madeiran sun and the touch of hundreds of hands.
Canon EOS 350D with Canon EF 24-105 f/4L IS
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Built on the site of one of Madeira's first chapels, Nossa Senhora do Monte is the most important church in the island. This Baroque structure was built in 1818 after the original was levelled in 1748.
The Chuch is located a short distance North of Funchal in Monte, a lovely town perched a steep 550m above sea level.
Canon EOS 350D with Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5
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Tags: madeira monte Nossa Senhora do Monte churches night square textures f:wide f:ultrawide funchal camera:canon_350d
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