Originating in a far-right separatist movement and drawing symbolic influence from Portugal’s Age of Discovery, the Madeiran flag appears minimalist at first glance - yet behind its design lies a complex story of identity, power, and regional ambition.
Madeira is testing drones to drop seed balls in steep, fire-damaged terrain after the 2024 wildfire, aiming to restore inaccessible areas and supporting long-term ecological recovery.
Christopher Columbus came to the Madeira archipelago in 1478 and settled on Porto Santo after marrying the governor's daughter.
Bummer! Madeira taxis failed to lower fares by adjusting taximeters, revealing a setup that does not allow price decreases.
Persistent disregard for safety warnings at Praia Formosa has led officials to activate fines under a long-standing maritime safety law.
The expensive drug Ozempic is now covered by SNS in Portugal, offering treatment for people with diabetes and obesity, addressing the needs of many in Madeira.
Eco-Tourism? Not quite yet. In 2024, Madeira recycled just 17% of its growing urban waste, far below Portugal’s 70% national target for 2030.
Nurses in Madeira have recently spoken out, stating that they cannot be held liable for failures in care caused by excessive workloads. Their powerful protest led SESARAM to respond by announcing new hires intended to ease pressure on emergency services.
Ponta do Sol plans to reopen the Lugar de Baixo marina, turning the failed project into a seaside leisure area by 2027 at the latest.
Sustainability consultant Paulo Brehm warns Madeira must rethink tourism, guiding visitors to less-crowded areas, involving residents, and considering a single regional tax.
In 2025, bank valuations for housing in Madeira increased 18.1% year-on-year.