Last Sunday in Santana. We had the opportunity to see and experience the XXIV Anona Festival.
This feast is the first of several events about the agricultural culture of Madeira island and has the objective to promote the importance of Anona in the local economy.

Anona, a Tropical Fruit

The Anona is originally from Equator and Peru. It was first introduced in Madeira around the XVII century during the discovery of these new territories.
Today you can find Anona across the entire island. 80% of the plantations are found in Santana, Machico, Santa Cruz and Funchal. Harvesting begins in Octobre and continues until the month of June, depending on the altitude and location of the crop.

The Fruit

Anona is a fruit with a white core that is creamy and juicy. Recently several studies showed it's benefits for health. You can find this fruit in the local Farmer's Market and some supermarkets around the island. It weighs between 200 to 300 grams and the price varies between 2 and 3 euros per kg.

What we saw?

In this festival, we had the opportunity to enjoy some of the best Anonas in Madeira brought by the farmers that grow them in this and the neighboring cities.
It was also an oportunity to enjoy some of the products produced from Anona, such ass: Licour, Milkshakes, the cake, pudin or icecream.