The old Quinta Vigia, owned by a British citizen named Mr. Davis who played host to the empress Sissi who stayed here in 1862 and in 1883. This was one the most picturesque villas of Madeira, famous not just for its excellent location but also because of the house and its surroundings, with gardens and big trees. All that remains of this villa are its gardens, which now form part of the gardens of the Casino Park Hotel.
The current Quinta Vigia was also known as Quinta das Angústias (Villa of the Anguish), or Quinta Lambert. It seems that Daniel da Costa Quintal built it in 1662. It was later owned by were Nicolau de la Tuelière and the Count of Lambert, who made alterations to the house and in the chapel.
Princess Adelaide of England (one of queen Victoria’s daughters) stayed at the villa (1847 – 1848), as did the Duke of Leuchtenberg (1849 – 50). This villa is now the official residence of the Regional Government of Madeira.
