Two large-scale fires have struck buildings in Funchal's historic center within a week, one on September 18th on Rua do Sabão and another on the night of September 25th-26th on Rua da Boa Viagem.
The news generated numerous comments on social media, raising suspicions about the fires' causes and the properties' future, with some readers suggesting the blazes could pave the way for new constructions like hotels or Local Accommodation (AL).
Historically, major fires in Funchal have spurred urban changes. A 19th-century fire led to the organization of fire fighting efforts, and one in 1971 destroyed much of a city block, resulting in the creation of Praça de Cristóvão Colombo. More recently, fires like the one at the former São Filipe Factory in 1974 and a building on Rua do Esmeraldo in 1986, after which the sites were recovered and repurposed, illustrate similar patterns of destruction and subsequent reconstruction or redevelopment.
