File:Madeira ali 10mar07 lrg.jpg

English: Two topographic features characterize this part of the Madeiran landscape: steep mountains and deep ravines. Both landforms are evident in this image. Deep ravines define the path water routinely takes off the island. In shadow in the morning sunlight, the ravines are like dark wrinkles radiating from the centre of the island in this image. The cities, the colour of terracotta roof tiles, are built mostly around the ravines in this region with two notable exceptions. The small town of Ribeira Brava sits at the mouth of a large ravine that extends from the heart of the island. The second exception is Funchal, the island’s capital. Three rivers run from the mountains into the city. The deep ravines that bring two of the rivers into the city are evident in the image. The rivers are lined with some of the city’s primary roads, and they come together in a “v” near the harbour.