text: Funchal 's deep natural harbor propelled the city 's development in the 15th and 16th centuries , when Ma ? ­ dei ? ­ ra became known to expeditions on their way to the Far East and Americas .
  
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  In the 15th and 16th centuries , Funchal Harbour was used by expeditions on their way to the Far East and Americas . It later became a huge trading port .