The stones that you see in the photo is what remains of the Pilar de Banger (Pillar of Banger). A tower built in 1798 by the English in the then John Light Banger on Rua da Praia (Street Beach), which today no longer exists. Had about 30 meters and a diameter at the base of 3 meters.
Was used as a crane for transporting goods from ships to anchor in the bay and as a place to watch ships against pirates, and then as a signpost.
For decades, Funchal was known, described and painted with the image of this monument.
Eventually demolished in 1939 to be built the Avenida do Mar (Avenue of the Sea), despite protests from many of the people and the press.
In 1987 the works on Avenida do Mar brought again to light some stones that were buried. Other lost it ...
It was rebuilt in part with some of the original rocks and not far from where erected outside.
I'm glad they rebuilt this monument! It would be sad to lose it completely. I don't understand when people will demolish something like this. It's charming and historic, and I think the construction must be very unusual with the stones looking like pieces from a puzzle where they interlock. I don't know that I've seen that before. Nice photo!
ReplyDeleteInteresting monument and interesting story. I, too, am glad for the partial restoration. When history we can touch is demolished, that immediacy which cannot come from books, is gone forever.
ReplyDeleteThis is so interesting. I would not have known what it was before reading your text.
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