Madeira celebrates traditional religious and cultural festivities

Various traditional religious and cultural festivities are taking place in the Madeira region. In Porto Formoso, located in the Ribeira Grande municipality, residents celebrate the feast of Nossa Senhora da Graça. A long-standing tradition involves the display of Coleus plants (locally referred to as ‘Urtiga’) in front of homes, featuring vibrant multicolored foliage. These ornamental plants require specific care, including shade and consistent watering, to maintain their appearance for the September celebrations.

In Caniçal, a maritime procession is held in honor of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, the patron saint of fishermen. The event involves a fleet of vessels accompanying the religious image at sea. This year’s celebration is noted for the return of nearly two thousand kilograms of dried tuna to local fishermen, which had previously been seized, allowing the catch to be integrated into the community's traditional festivities.