Page "Monte (Funchal)" Paragraph 8

The parish of Monte literally extends along the mountainous foothills in the northeast corner of the municipality of Funchal, limited by the valley of Ribeira de João Gomes and west by the river-valley of Fundoa.

The altimetry increases considerably from 300 to 1300 metres along its border, and the parish is marked by various cliffs, overlooks, ravines and water courses.

Its picturesque vantage point has resulted, over the years, in the construction of many homes and buildings in conditions that are percarious or dangerous.

This construction has degraded the natural forested areas and facilitated the movement of water that has resulted in natural catastrophes, such as the 2010 mudslides, which caused the death and injury of many in the parish.

Similarly, in the summer, the hot dry climate has made the forests in the parish susceptible to forest fires.