| Geography |
The archipelago of Madeira is situated between the latitudes of 32° 38'N and 32° 52'N with its longitudes between 16° 39'W and 17° 16'W. The island being of volcanic origin, rose from the depths of the Atlantic ocean forming the initial island phase of its existence about 2.5 million years ago, which gave birth to the central mountain range and peaks. Volcanic activity is considered to be extinct with the last eruption taking place some 25,000 years ago. The magnificent landscape of Madeira was formed by the merciless conflict between the natural elements of rain, torrential water, snow and wind that eroded the less resistant rocks. Only two small craters are well preserved at Santo da Serra and Fanal. Madeira's coastline is dominated by steep high cliffs with small natural platforms and pebble beaches created by landslides which occupy the narrow spaces between sea and mountain.
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