A European project brings the 'Golden Island' back to life

A thousand kilometres south of Lisbon, in the middle of the Atlantic stands Porto Santo – a biosphere reserve. It is the second biggest island in the Madeira archipelago. Today, a European project is showcasing its windmills and old public fountains, two signs of identity with which the "golden island" is strengthening its tourist offer, while preserving and passing on its heritage.

"Maintaining the population on the island of Porto Santo has always been very difficult due to the lack of resources," says Rubina Brito, an environment official at Porto Santo City Council. And the people of Porto Santo are known as resilient and resourceful people. And the mills demonstrate this."

"The wells were places where people waited to fill their jars and took the opportunity to sing, tell stories, and even date. In short, they were seen as places to socialise at that time."