Madeira is an incredible place. You will love the scenery, the people and the food. But, most importantly of all, you will fall in love with the souvenirs from Madeira!
Here are some things to buy on Madeira:
1. Madeira’s wine
Madeira wine has been produced on the island of Madeira since the 16th century. The wine was first brought to England by Sir Thomas Gresham, who sold it as medicine for his sick father-in-law; it became popular and was then exported around Europe. In 1733, an English merchant named Richard Clarke formed a partnership with a Portuguese trader in Madeira and began selling wines directly to England so they could avoid paying taxes on their exports. The British government tried several times to stop this practice but failed until 1836 when they signed an agreement with Portugal that allowed them to control all trade between Britain and its colonies (including Madeira).
Today there are still over 30 wineries producing hundreds if not thousands of different types of vintages throughout the year.
2. Artisanal chocolates in Madeira
Madeira chocolates are a unique product made from the cocoa beans of the islands. They are sold in many shops and markets, but if you want to buy something unique; try the chocolate with Madeira’s tropical fruits. The most famous one to buy them from is UauCacau. Not only do they taste amazing, but also their chocolate won many awards.
3. The Honey of Madeira
Madeira honey is a special product of the island. It’s a sweet and aromatic honey, which is used as an ingredient in many dishes. The island produces over 50 different types of honey, but the most popular one is the “Leiteiro”, which comes from bees that nestle in the Leitoeiro tree (a type of laurel).
Madeira Honey has many health benefits: it helps with digestion, and it’s good for your skin and hair! You can also use it as a natural remedy against coughs or colds because it contains antioxidant properties.
4. Madeira’s famous Cakes
Madeira cake is a traditional cake from the island. It’s made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and honey. The cakes are often decorated with icing or fondant and eaten during Christmas time.
The name comes from its origin: the Portuguese word “madeiro” means “wood” or “forest”. A legend says that this cake was created by monks who lived in the forests of Madeira when they were not allowed to cook meat on their island during Lent (a period of fasting).
5. Cheese from Madeira
Madeira cheese is a very popular souvenir, and for good reason. It’s made from cow’s milk, has a rich flavor and creamy texture, and is produced on the island of Madeira. The best time to purchase this souvenir is in the summer when there are many festivals celebrating food and wine that offer plenty of opportunities to sample some excellent local products.
6. The coat of arms
The coat of arms of Madeira was designed by Manuel Pereira da Silva in 1882. The motto “Forte e Luz” (Strong and Light) appears on it in Latin, while the symbols are a crescent moon, a star, and an anchor. The colors used are green, white, and red. These were chosen as they were seen as being representative of life on the island at that time (green) as well as its history (white).
7. Fruit jams madeira
In Madeira, you can find many preserves and fruit jams. The most popular ones are:
- Jam Madeira (a preserve made from grape must).
- Preserves Madeira (a preserve with a higher proportion of sugar than traditional jams).
8. Madeira’s Cork
Madeira’s cork is a natural product and one of the most popular souvenirs on the island. It’s also good for your wallet, as the price of cork has been dropping in recent years.
Cork is used for many things: bottles, wine stoppers, and even insulation material. It’s eco-friendly too! Cork trees grow very slowly so they help preserve the island’s forests by providing them with shade.
9. Madeiran Traditional Boots
Madeira Traditional Boots are a must-have souvenir. These traditional boots are handmade and unique, so you won’t find them anywhere else in the world! Madeira Traditional Boots are also very comfortable, warm, and waterproof (they’re made from leather), making them perfect for walks around the island especially the famous Levada walks. No matter what is the weather like in Madeira that day, you will be ready.
Madeira’s famous “bota de pao,” or “bread loaf” as they call it here on the island, is a style of shoe that has been worn by locals since the 17th century when Portuguese sailors first came here to live in peace after escaping religious persecution at home. The name comes from their shape; they look like loaves of bread wrapped up tight with string before baking!
10. Beauty Products and Soaps from Madeira
If you’re looking for unique beauty and care souvenirs to take home with you, then you’ve come to the right place! Here are some ideas of what to buy on Madeira:
- Soaps from Madeira: these soaps are handmade and come in a wide variety of scents. They make great gifts for friends or family who love natural products.
- Hair Products from Madeira: there are many different kinds of shampoo, conditioner, and styling products available here at reasonable prices. If you want something special that won’t break your budget then look no further than this section!
- Cosmetics From Madeira: whether it’s makeup remover wipes or moisturizing cream, Madeira has everything under one roof! You’ll never have trouble finding what works best for both men & women alike because there’s something here for everyone.
