Madeira is the largest of the group of volcanic islands lying 550km
(330mls) west of the Moroccan coast and 900km (560mls) south-west of the national
capital, Lisbon. Porto Santo and the uninhabited Ilhas Selvagens and Desertas
complete the group, with a total area of 813swkm (314sqmi), of which Madeira contributes
745 sq km.
With a warm climate and fertile soils, the Madeira Islands are known for their
rich exotic plant life. The abundance of species is all the more surprising because
rainfall is confined to the winter months.
The present name, meaning wood, was given by the Portuguese when they first
saw the forested islands in 1419. The forests were largely destroyed and a farming
industry was established. Spain held the islands between 1580 and 1640, while
Britain occupied the islands twice early in the 19th century.
Major crops included bananas, maize, mangos, oranges, and sugar cane. Grapes are grown to make the islands' best known product - Madeira wine. Fishing is important as also is tourism - the islands are a famous winter resort.
There's so much more to learn... Check out our Facts For The Visitor or read up on our reviews of everything about Madeira:
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