Considered the best player in the world for the fifth time in 2017, Cristiano Ronaldo does not need presentations when it comes to football. The Portuguese idol was born in a small corner in the Atlantic Ocean, the island of Madeira, and although he left the place many years ago, he still maintains a close relation with his destiny, deserving the fame and recognition of the local people inside and off the lawns, a retribution for his dedication to the homeland.
The main gateway to the archipelago is called Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, located 20 minutes from the charming Madeiran capital of Funchal. There is even a player bust produced by a local artist to honor him. One of the largest works of the region, the airport has an extension of the track built with concrete pillars and, upon arrival to the island, provides a breathtaking view of the sea.
An imposing statue of Cristiano Ronaldo by the Madeiran sculptor Ricardo Velosa, 2.4 meters high and made with 800 kilos of bronze, signals the entrance of the unmissable CR7 Museum on Sé Carneiro Avenue. The venue gathers hundreds of individual prizes received by the Real Madrid star, which includes the FIFA Golden Balls and the UEFA Golden Shoe. There are also shirts, cleats, balls, photos, videos, honors and even interactive wax statues and holograms of the player.
Already the trophies conquered in teams, as they are not in possession of Cristiano, are identical retorts. Visitors can still check out the best moments of their career so far in an interactive panel, from the beginning, when they defended the Swallow, the Madeira team.
The museum is housed in the building dedicated to the Hotel Pestana CR7 Funchal, an undertaking that is a show apart. The carpets mimic the green lawns and shirts are scattered throughout the common areas, combined with a vibrant and modern decor. The outdoor areas include an outdoor gym, swimming pool, bar and sauna, all overlooking Funchal Harbor. A great request for accommodation on Madeira Island, especially for fans of the club.
You can also take a guided tour of the destination, focused on the life of Cristiano Ronaldo. The tour visits important points of where he lived there, such as the Andorinha Football Club and Santo António, the modest neighborhood where he spent his childhood. The tour also takes tourists to important tourist attractions of the Madeiran capital, such as Câmara de Lobos and the Cabo Girão lookout point.
Photos: Press Release / Madeira Tourism