History of Freemasonry in Ilha da Madeira, Portugal.
Freemasonry, an international fraternity of men who share a belief in the brotherhood of mankind and the fatherhood of God, has had a long and interesting history in Madeira Island, Portugal.
The first lodge in Madeira was established in 1843 by a group of British merchants who were living and working on the island.
The lodge was called the "Lodge of Unity," and it was granted a warrant by the United Grand Lodge of England.
Over the years, the Lodge of Unity grew in size and influence, and it attracted members from a variety of backgrounds, including Portuguese and French individuals.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several other Masonic lodges were established in Madeira, including the Lodge of Perfect Union, which was founded in 1872 and was also granted a warrant by the United Grand Lodge of England.
The Lodge of Perfect Union was predominantly made up of Portuguese members, and it played an important role in the cultural and social life of Madeira Island.
During the early part of the 20th century, Freemasonry in Madeira Island experienced a period of growth and expansion.
New lodges were established, and the fraternity continued to attract members from a wide range of professions and backgrounds.
However, during the authoritarian regime of the Estado Novo, which ruled Portugal from 1933 to 1974, Freemasonry was banned in the country, and many lodges were forced to close.
Today, there are several active Masonic lodges in Madeira Island, including the Lodge of Perfect Union and the Lodge of Unity, which continue to promote the values of brotherhood, charity, and moral integrity that have been central to the Masonic tradition for centuries.
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