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A micronation called the Principality of Pontinha is located on a small islet near Madeira Island. The islet has a tiny fortress that looks intimidating, but it’s actually welcoming to visitors.

The islet’s owner, an art teacher named Renato Barros, bought it from a rich British family in 2000. He claimed that the Portuguese king had given the family both ownership and sovereignty over the islet in a royal charter in 1903.

So, in 2007, Barros proclaimed that he was independent from Portugal. He even took the title of Prince Renato II of Pontinha.

Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal
Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal
Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal
Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal
Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal
Forte São José, Principado da Pontinha Funchal, Madeira Portugal

Portugal’s government doesn’t acknowledge his independence, so you won’t have any trouble visiting the islet. You can enjoy a great view of Funchal’s port from the fortress’ terrace. You might also meet the prince himself, unless he’s working as a teacher on the mainland. He might talk to you about his collection of things related to the islet’s history.