Calheta is the largest municipality in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, with a population of about 12 thousand people. It is located between the southern and western ends of the island of Madeira, and its territory of around 116 km2 makes it the longest.
Calheta is supposed to have derived its name from the small bay or cove that serves as its port and into which Zarco entered when he intended to go ashore, as this is the meaning of the word.
The Arts Centre “Casa das Mudas,” a project constructed in perfect harmony with the surrounding scenery and offering a diverse cultural program, is located in this neighborhood. The “Casa das Mudas” hosts a variety of exhibitions, plays, musicals, conferences, and other events.
Arco da Calheta, Calheta, Estreito da Calheta, Faj da Ovelha, Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar, Ponta do Pargo, and Prazeres are the eight parishes that make up the municipality of Calheta