The parish of Caniçal, in the municipality of Machico, annually celebrates the devotion to Our Lady of Mercy, one of Madeira's most significant religious and cultural events. Traditionally held on the third weekend of September, the festival brings together the local community, fishermen, emigrants, and visitors in an expression of faith deeply connected to the sea and the region's identity.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy, built in the 17th century atop Monte Gordo, is the focal point of this celebration. According to legend, the chapel was constructed by sailors who promised the Virgin its erection if they survived a storm. Since then, Our Lady of Mercy has been revered as the protector of fishermen and a symbol of the connection between Caniçal and the ocean.
One of the most emblematic moments is the maritime procession, where the image of the Virgin is transported by sea, accompanied by decorated boats. This procession is a tribute to the men and women of the sea, preserving the memory of ancestors and giving thanks for divine protection. The festival combines religious observance with popular gathering, music, gastronomy, and entertainment, becoming an intergenerational meeting point and a symbol of Caniçal's cultural heritage.
