Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market

Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market

Amazonas

75/10090 min

The Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market, located in Manaus on the banks of the Rio Negro, is a landmark marketplace renowned for its unique iron architecture inspired by Paris's Les Halles. Constructed between 1880 and 1883 during the rubber boom, the market features two distinct facades facing the river and the city street. Its structure, imported mainly from Europe, notably includes ironwork by Walter Macfarlane of Glasgow. The market offers a rich variety of Amazonian products such as fresh fish, spices, fruits, indigenous medicines, and handcrafted souvenirs, making it both a cultural hub and a tourist attraction. After being closed for restoration in 2006, it reopened in 2013, preserving its historical and architectural significance. The building is recognized as a National Historical Heritage site in Brazil and remains one of the largest open markets in Manaus, embodying the city’s economic and cultural history during the rubber era.

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Tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest products and to experience the lively atmosphere. Purchasing tickets is not required as it is a public market, but guided tours may enhance the experience. The market offers discounts and special products during local festivals. Booking a guided tour in advance is recommended to fully appreciate its history and architecture.

Interesting facts

  • The iron structures were manufactured in Europe and shipped to Manaus, reflecting the city's wealth during the rubber boom.
  • The market’s architecture is inspired by the famous Les Halles market in Paris and built in the Art Nouveau style.
  • It was declared a National Historical Heritage site by IPHAN in 1987 due to its unique iron architecture.
  • There is a common but unverified legend that Gustave Eiffel designed the structure, though official records attribute the construction to other companies.
  • The market features two very different facades: one facing the Rio Negro river and another facing the city street.

History

1883

The market was inaugurated on July 15, 1883, during the height of Manaus's rubber boom, named after then-mayor Adolpho Lisboa.

Its design was inspired by the Parisian Les Halles and built with imported iron structures from Europe, including contributions from British companies such as Walter Macfarlane of Glasgow.

Over time, side pavilions were added, expanding its commercial capacity.

1987

In 1987, it was declared a National Historical Heritage site by IPHAN.

2006

After decades of use, the building was closed in 2006 for extensive restoration and reopened in 2013, preserving its architectural integrity.

Place Guide

1
Central Pavilion1883
Backus & Brisbin (English company), Walter Macfarlane (ironworks)

The original main building constructed between 1880-1883 featuring iron structures imported from Europe. It showcases Art Nouveau design with 28 supporting iron columns and decorative iron parapets. Inside, wooden counters with marble tops separate vendor boxes.

2
Side Pavilionsc. 1890
Walter Macfarlane & Co. Ltd

Two side pavilions built around 1890 with iron structures and zinc roofs, designed to expand commercial space. They include 20 vendor boxes separated by iron grills and wooden counters with marble tops.

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