Funchal is celebrating its 518th anniversary with a program of events running from August 17th to 27th. The Funchal City Council will honor geneticist Heloísa G. Santos, conductor Lídia Chagas, Dr. Maria Martins, architect Rui Campos Matos, and the University of Madeira with the Gold Medal of Municipal Merit.
Additionally, 111 council employees will be recognized with awards for attendance and good service, along with two centenarian residents. The program features concerts, including an ABBA tribute on August 20th, and six sports events, encompassing activities like canoeing, regattas, and urban downhill.
The celebrations begin with Funchal Folk - Arraial do Mundo and conclude with the European Folklore Week, featuring regional, national, and international groups. The Mayor of Funchal City Council urged everyone to participate, emphasizing the free nature of the activities and the aim to celebrate the city's identity.
