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The doors inviting you in

May 2, 2020 | Michael Turtle | 18 Comments

STREET ART

Painted doors, Funchal, Madeira

Hmmm… there’s seems to be something a little odd about that door. Actually, you know what, there’s something a bit different about the next one as well. In fact, as I walk along the street, it seems every door is a little bit special.

I’m in a narrow street called Rua de Santa Maria (Santa Maria Street) in the capital of Madeira, Funchal. It’s not wide enough for cars and, even if it was, tables and chairs from the many restaurants and cafes are taking up most of the space.

This is the old part of the city, not far from the water’s edge and it’s feeling the effects of age.

Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira

In an effort to revitalise the area, the local council has organised an art project in the street this year. And, as I discover quite quickly, it involves the doors of the buildings.

About 200 doors – into houses, restaurants, businesses, galleries – have been handed over to artists and designers who have been asked to ‘do something with them’. Their canvases invite people inside every day.

The idea is to create a piece of work that invites people in to something deeper.

Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira

In many ways it has already succeeded in achieving its goal to revitalise the area. Not only is there more colour and energy but also visitors are slowing down and looking around more.

The street is not just a thoroughfare or the location of somewhere to eat – it is now something to enjoy and savour in its own right.

Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira

I thought I would bring you a selection of the beautiful artwork on the doors. With about 200 that have been transformed, there are many more than this. But it gives you a taste.

Do you have a favourite one?

Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira
Painted doors in Funchal, Madeira

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MADEIRA

Although there are a few areas you could stay in Madeira, I think it makes sense to base yourself in the capital Funchal and do trips from here.

BACKPACKER

For a backpacker option, I recommend Santa Maria Hostel, which is in an old renovated school.

BUDGET

If you would like something affordable, Vitorina Corte Guesthouse has lovely rooms right by the water.

BOUTIQUE

With an amazing pool, Castanheiro Boutique Hotel is a great choice for something with style.

LUXURY

And when it comes to luxury, Les Suites at Cliff Bay is an incredible property!

Time Travel Turtle was a guest of Porto Bay Hotels and Resorts and Madeira Promotion Bureau but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

Reader Interactions

    Comments Cancel reply

  1. Alfredo Begazo |

    April 11, 2014 at 3:21 am

    Reply

    First time at your site. These photos are rather interesting. And so is the looks of the site.

    • Michael Turtle |

      April 23, 2014 at 11:14 pm

      Reply

      Thanks Alfredo – I appreciate you stopping by! You’re welcome back whenever you want!! 🙂

  2. Melissa |

    April 11, 2014 at 9:03 am

    Reply

    This is such an amazing project! I would love to come home every day to a door that had a special artistic touch to it.

    • Michael Turtle |

      April 23, 2014 at 11:18 pm

      Reply

      Do you think you could just get someone to come and do yours? Maybe it wouldn’t have the same effect… 🙂

  3. Megan |

    April 11, 2014 at 9:39 am

    Reply

    This is such a beautiful project! A really good example of how a little bit of love, or in this case, art, can transform an area. I love the second door – the men with the fish.

    • Michael Turtle |

      April 23, 2014 at 11:18 pm

      Reply

      It’s also great that everyone got behind it and offered up their doors. I can imagine it would have been a bit scary at first but I’m sure they’re all very pleased now they’ve seen the results!

  4. [email protected] |

    April 14, 2014 at 12:56 pm

    Reply

    Wow this is a really great idea! If revitalization was the aim then they most definitely have succeeded. These doors are beautiful.

    • Michael Turtle |

      April 23, 2014 at 11:31 pm

      Reply

      Stunning, aren’t they? I can think of some other areas that could use an idea like this. It really brings a place back to life!

  5. Lizzie @ Wanderarti |

    April 15, 2014 at 5:47 pm

    Reply

    Love this project! What a beautifully simple way to revitalise a town.

    • Michael Turtle |

      April 23, 2014 at 11:33 pm

      Reply

      It is simple, isn’t it? I guess that’s one of the reasons it was so effective. Everyone was able to understand it and get on board!

  6. Dan |

    June 5, 2014 at 10:59 am

    Reply

    I think my favourite is the George Orwell inspired door

  7. Brenda vause |

    July 30, 2014 at 11:50 am

    Reply

    Been to Maderia many timed but never seen these doors will certainly look out for them on my trip later this year, enjoyed the pictures very much.

  8. Sarah |

    August 10, 2014 at 3:09 pm

    Reply

    They are amazing . I seen some on bordpanda web blog , so I did a search for the city and doors… And found this blog I’m inspired to paint mine now….

  9. Jennifer McCallum |

    December 27, 2016 at 6:26 am

    Reply

    Just found your post, we’re heading to Funchal this year….great inspiration. We’ll definitely check this area out, thanks! And great photos 🙂

  10. Karen |

    August 7, 2018 at 3:22 pm

    Reply

    Just visited this narrow little street in Funchal. Some artistic work seen, worth a visit but unable to photograph many doors as obstructed by restaurant tables and people eating. Combine your trip with a ride on the cable cars and a ride downhill on the wicker baskets.

  11. Moon Ray |

    July 13, 2019 at 12:18 am

    Reply

    I visited the street 3 years ago. It was really amazing. Love this project!!

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This is the website of travel writer, Michael Turtle. After working in broadcast journalism for a decade in Australia, Michael left Sydney to travel the world indefinitely and write about the places, people and experiences he discovers. This isn't a diary - these are real stories from the world.

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