The Dark History of Madeira's Brazen Head

Madeira's British Legacy: From Commerce to Cemeteries

Madeira, a lush archipelago in the Atlantic, has long been intertwined with British history, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. British expatriates played a significant role in the economic development of the island, with many settling there to seek fortunes in wine production and other industries. The island's temperate climate also attracted those suffering from tuberculosis, as it was believed to offer health benefits for such conditions.

The British influence is evident across Madeira today. Landmarks like Reid's Palace Hotel, Blandy's Wine, and the local embroidery industry all have roots in the British presence on the island. In Funchal, the capital, one can find numerous references to this heritage, from place names to monuments. The countryside is dotted with quintas, or manor houses, featuring English-style gardens and a variety of non-native plants, further showcasing the historical British footprint.

Despite the diminished control over local businesses, British tourists continue to be a significant source of revenue for Madeira, especially during the winter months when they seek refuge from the cold in this perennially warm paradise.

Ponta do Garajau: A Nature Reserve with a Sinister Past

Declared a nature reserve in 1982 and a marine conservation area in 1986, Ponta do Garajau offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich underwater world that attracts divers. Recent developments, including parking facilities, a cable car, and improved pathways, have made the area more accessible and economically viable, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty.

However, this idyllic location was once ominously referred to as the Brazen Head by the British community. Before the 1770s, Madeiran law prohibited non-Catholics from being buried on the island, presenting a dire problem for the predominantly Protestant British residents. With no possibility of transporting the deceased to mainland Europe, the Brazen Head became a grim solution to their burial dilemma.

Due to its geological features—a narrow headland with steep cliffs dropping into deep waters—the Brazen Head was the final journey for many British deceased. Bodies were carried to the edge and cast into the sea, with wealthier families sometimes using boats for a more dignified send-off. Regardless, the outcome was the same: the dead were lost to the ocean, leaving future generations without a gravesite to visit.

This sorrowful chapter in history ended with the establishment of a British cemetery in the 1770s, which was also made available to other nationalities.

The Statue of Christ the Redeemer: A Symbol Unrelated to the Past

One of the main attractions at Ponta do Garajau is the imposing statue of Christ the Redeemer, reminiscent of the iconic statue in Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated in 1927, this statue stands as a peaceful guardian over the Atlantic, unrelated to the area's dark history.

For those interested in learning more about the Ponta do Garajau and its transformation from a place of sorrow to a site of natural splendor, the Ponta do Garajau Tourist Guide offers further details.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Madeira's tourism sector is a significant part of its economy, with British tourists accounting for a substantial share. According to the Madeira Promotion Bureau, British visitors represent one of the largest groups of foreign tourists to the island.
• The British Cemetery in Funchal, established in the late 18th century, is a testament to the island's historical religious diversity. It serves as a resting place for people of various nationalities and faiths.
• The marine conservation area around Ponta do Garajau is home to a diverse range of marine life. The Madeira Islands have been recognized as a "Hope Spot" by Mission Blue, an organization led by oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, due to their unique marine biodiversity and conservation efforts.

For more information on Madeira's tourism and conservation initiatives, visit the Madeira Promotion Bureau and Mission Blue's Hope Spots.