Funchal: A 500-year-old church associated with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Funchal Church in Madeira, inaugurated in 1514, features Gothic and Romanesque architecture and offers free admission; it is where Cristiano Ronaldo plans to hold his wedding ceremony after the 2026 World Cup.
According to Jornal da Madeira, the Funchal Cathedral on the island of Madeira is where Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez plan to hold their wedding ceremony after the 2026 World Cup. This more than 500-year-old cathedral is open daily free of charge and is only about 2.4 km from Ronaldo's birthplace and about 5 km from his childhood training ground (Nacional da Madeira FC).
Discover Funchal Mosque
Built during the reign of King Dom Manuel and inaugurated in 1514, Funchal Cathedral is one of the oldest religious sites in Ronaldo's hometown, recognized as a national monument since 1910. According to Earth Trekkers, the structure uses basalt stone and white mortar, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
The sanctuary is distinguished by its dome and ceiling crafted from cedar wood found on the island. The ceiling is decorated with geometric and animal motifs, carved from juniper and cedar wood, and inlaid with ivory. In the central area, gilded woodwork, sculptures, and oil paintings create a solemn atmosphere.
Cristiano Ronaldo's mark
The Funchal church holds personal significance for Ronaldo: it's only about 2.4 km from the hospital where he was born and about 5 km from his childhood training ground. According to Jornal da Madeira, after the church ceremony, the wedding reception is planned to be held at a hotel on the island.
Madeira: multiple combined stops
Madeira comprises four islands with its capital, Funchal, known for its beautiful scenery and clear blue sea. The island also features the Cabo Girão cliffs, described as the highest in Europe, and natural pools formed from cooled lava.
Landmarks associated with Cristiano Ronaldo, such as the CR7 museum and the Ronaldo bronze statue, contribute to making Madeira an attractive destination on the tourist map. Visitors can combine a visit to the church with these landmarks to fully experience "Ronaldo's hometown".
Fact-checking information
- Location: Funchal Church, Funchal, Madeira.
- Inaugurated: 1514; built during the reign of King Dom Manuel; National Monument since 1910.
- Architecture & Materials: Romanesque and Gothic; basalt stone, white stucco; cedar/juniper wood ceilings, ivory inlay; central area with gilded woodwork, sculptures, oil paintings (according to Earth Trekkers).
- Open: Free admission every day.
- Regarding Cristiano Ronaldo: the house is approximately 2.4 km from the hospital where he was born; and about 5 km from his childhood training ground (Nacional da Madeira FC). According to Jornal da Madeira, the wedding is planned after the 2026 World Cup, with the reception at a hotel on the island.
