São Vicente () is a municipality along the north-west coast of the island of Madeira.
History
The first human visitors to São Vicente appeared in the middle of the 15th century, colonizing the area much later than the settlers in the southern part of the island, owing to its fertility. This area of the island, due to its steep escarpments and deep river-valleys made early settlement difficult. The first settlers appeared in the areas of São Vicente and Ponta Delgada, respectively.
The progressive growth of its population led to dis-annexation of São Vicente from the Captaincy of Machico, and elevation to municipal seat by royal charter on 23 August 1774. At that time the parishes of Porto Moniz, Seixal, Arco de São Jorge and São Jorge where under the administration of the municipal authority.
In 1835, the restructuring of municipal government under the Liberal reformer Mouzinho da Silveira led to the creation of two new municipalities (Santana and Porto Moniz) along the northern coast of Madeira, which reduced the area of São Vicente. But, by 1867, under decree it reverted to its former dimensions.
Notable citizens
- Gregório Joaquim Diniz ( 1863 – 1931) – doctor, Sub-Delegate for Health, and involved in the first hydro-electrical production facility on the island of Madeira, at Pé de Corrida.
References
Notes
Sources
External links
- Photos of São Vicente
- Webportal of São Vicente, Santana and Porto Moniz, Local Radio