If you’ve spent any time exploring Funchal, you’ve probably looked up and spotted the stone walls of a fortress perched high on the hillside above the city. That’s the Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico—a mouthful of a name for a fortress with a big presence and an even bigger view. Locals often call it ‘Pico Rádio’ or Radio Peak, thanks to the antenna towers on site, but don’t let the modern nickname fool you. This place has been keeping watch over Madeira’s capital for centuries.
Whether you’re into panoramic views, a bit of history, or just looking for a quiet spot away from the crowds, this lesser-visited fort ticks a lot of boxes. It’s close enough to central Funchal to be convenient, yet far enough above it to give you a sense of escape.
Historical background of the fortress
The Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico has been standing guard over Funchal since the early 1600s. It was built during a time when pirate attacks were a real concern for coastal towns like this, especially as Madeira became more prominent in Atlantic trade routes. The island needed solid defences—and fast.
The São João Batista do Pico Fort was part of a network of military structures built to keep the island safe. It was constructed during the reign of King Philip I of Portugal (who also happened to be Philip II of Spain—yes, that complicated Iberian union period). The idea was simple: if pirates or foreign navies appeared on the horizon, this fortress could give early warning and a strong line of defence from its high ground position.
Over the centuries, the fort changed hands, purposes, and even appearances. At one point, it housed troops, stored weapons and gunpowder, and later on, was handed over to the Navy to be used as a communications centre. Hence, the nickname ‘Radio Peak’. These days, it’s more of a cultural landmark than a military installation, but the atmosphere still carries echoes of its past.
Architectural features and design
When you first arrive, what hits you is how compact the São João Batista Fort actually is. It’s not a sprawling, Disney-style castle. It’s a stout, sturdy piece of military architecture, built with function firmly in mind. The fortress is laid out in a roughly square shape, with thick stone walls and angular bastions designed to deflect cannon fire and give defenders a clear line of sight.
A small chapel sits near the centre of the fort; no surprise for a country that rarely separated religion from daily life in the 17th century. The chapel is dedicated, as you might guess, to São João Baptista (Saint John the Baptist). While the interior is modest, there’s something peaceful about it, particularly when it’s quiet and the sunlight filters through the stone.
One feature that makes the fort really distinctive is its positioning. It sits nearly 110 metres above sea level, giving it a strategic vantage point over Funchal Bay. In the days before radar, that elevation was priceless. Today, it’s what gives visitors those unbeatable views over the city.
Importance in regional defence
The fort’s elevated position made it a key part of Funchal’s defence network. From here, lookouts could spot ships long before they reached the shore. That gave the city precious time to prepare, whether it meant readying cannons or simply shutting the gates.
Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico was never the biggest fort on the island, but it was certainly one of the most strategically placed. Alongside other defensive structures like the São Tiago Fortress down by the waterfront, it helped create a layered defence system that proved effective enough to deter many would-be invaders.
Its military role gradually faded over time, particularly as naval warfare evolved and threats to Madeira became more sporadic. But the stories it holds of watchful nights, unexpected arrivals, and urgent signals sent down to the city still make it an important historical landmark.
Visiting the fortress today: what to expect
Today, Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico is open to the public from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. It’s closed on weekends.
Visiting it feels a little bit like discovering a hidden viewpoint only the locals know about. It’s not as crowded as the more obvious tourist attractions, which is part of the appeal. You’ll often find yourself wandering the grounds in near silence, save for the breeze and the occasional squawk of a passing gull.
Entry is free, and while there’s not an extensive museum inside, you do get information boards that give you a bit of context. The real treat, though, is the view. From the ramparts, you can see across the red rooftops of Funchal, watch cruise ships pull into the harbour, and if the sky’s clear, follow the coastline all the way towards Câmara de Lobos.
There are a few shaded spots, a small courtyard with a café, and stone benches for taking a breather. You’ll probably spend less than an hour here, but it’s an hour well spent (especially if you time it with golden hour in the late afternoon).
Nearby attractions and activities
Being perched right above the city means you’re only a short distance from some of Funchal’s best spots. Head downhill and you’ll reach the Old Town in about 15–20 minutes on foot, passing the Quinta das Cruzes Museum along the way. It’s an 18th-century villa with beautiful gardens that’s home to 500 years of art, ceramic, jewellery and antiques.
If you’re in the mood for more culture, the Funchal Cathedral, Madeira Story Centre, and the colourful Mercado dos Lavradores are all nearby and worth exploring. And if you’ve worked up an appetite, you’re spoiled for choice. The Old Town is packed with restaurants offering everything from traditional espetada to fresh seafood and excellent local wine.
Back uphill, a short drive will take you to the famous Monte Palace area, with its gardens and cable car, or to Pico dos Barcelos, another fantastic viewpoint that complements the one at Radio Peak.
Plan your visit to Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of quiet viewpoints, or just someone who enjoys discovering spots with a bit of character, the Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico deserves a place on your Madeira itinerary. It’s an easy addition to any Funchal day, offering a rare combination of historical interest and dramatic views in a peaceful atmosphere you won’t always find in the busier parts of the city.
If you’re planning a trip and want a comfortable base nearby, check out Atlantic Holiday Rentals. From city apartments close to Funchal’s restaurants and markets to villas in the hills with space to stretch out and relax, there’s something to suit every kind of traveller. And from many of our properties, you can even spot Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico from your terrace. What better way to plan your visit than with a view of it from the start!
