Fortress of São João Beatista do Pico

Welcome, dear tourists, history buffs, and accidental wanderers, to the Fortress of São João Baptista do Pico—a place so important that they built it twice!

The “Don’t Mess With Funchal” Fortress

Picture this: It’s the late 16th century, and Funchal is getting raided by pirates, French corsairs, and even some sneaky Moorish folks. The locals are not amused. So, in a classic “fine, we’ll build a fort” move, the Portuguese get to work. At first, it’s just a humble wooden structure (because, why rush things?). Then, in 1606, they decide, “Hey, maybe stone is a better idea,” and upgrade it.

Built under the Philip dynasty, this fortress was part of a grand defensive plan to protect Funchal from sea bullies. It even had a massive water reservoir—because dehydration is a bigger enemy than pirates.

Fortress or Radio Station?

By the 18th century, everyone was kind of over the whole "fortress life," so they took parts of it down. But, surprise! In the 20th century, the Navy claimed it, turned it into a radio communication hub, and people started calling it Pico-Rádio. Basically, this fort went from a defensive stronghold to an old-school WiFi router for ships.

The Defences of the Bay of Funchal—How Funchal Said ‘Not Today, Pirates’

Back in the 15th century, Funchal was rolling in sugar money, making it the place for Portuguese and foreign traders. But success comes with problems, like random pirate attacks. So, after a particularly nasty French pirate visit in 1566, the Portuguese got serious about fortifying the city.

• First, they built São Filipe Fortress (1570-1590).
• Then, they upgraded São Lourenço, because why stop at one?
• By 1618, they were on a fort-building spree, adding São Tiago, Pico (yes, the one we’re talking about!), and even a custom stronghold for customs officers (because paperwork needs protection, too).

By the late 17th century, forts surrounded Funchal like a well-armed hug, making it very inconvenient for ships with bad intentions.

Final Thoughts – What’s in it for You?

So here you are, standing inside history itself! This place has seen everything—pirates, Portuguese kings, military engineers, and, eventually, radio signals. Now it’s here for you to admire, explore, and take really cool photos for Instagram.

Now go forth, snap some pictures, and tell your friends you just visited Funchal’s most stubborn fortress!

‍