Madalena do Mar is a beautiful and large terrace between Ponta do Sol and Calheta. It was named like this because it is said that, in the 15th century, a Polish prince – Henrique Alemão has risen a farm and built a chapel in honour of Saint Mary Madeleine on lands donated by João Gonçalves Zarco, one of Madeira discoverers.

Its geographical position, sheltered from the North winds and from the heat of the steep cliffs are the perfect conditions for tropical cultures. This is why Madalena do Mar is considered to be the best area for banana production and so, almost all lands between the sea promenade and the cliffs at North are covered by banana trees.

On the 15th century, on Henrique Alemão farm, the dominant culture was sugar cane and from its refinery many tons of sugar and rum where exported.