Mercado Modelo
Bahia
Mercado Modelo, inaugurated in 1912 and currently housed since 1971 in the 19th-century neoclassical former Customs House building in Salvador, Bahia, is a premier handicraft market and cultural landmark. Located in the traditional Comércio neighborhood facing the Bay of All Saints, it hosts 266 stores offering a vast array of Bahian handicrafts, gifts, and souvenirs. The building itself is protected by Brazil's National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN), reflecting its architectural and historical value. Mercado Modelo is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural hub featuring two renowned Bahian restaurants, Maria de São Pedro and Camafeu de Oxóssi, celebrated for their culinary heritage. The market has endured several devastating fires throughout its history, notably in 1969, which led to its relocation to the current historic building. It remains a major tourist attraction, visited by approximately 80% of Salvador's tourists, and is situated near other iconic sites such as the Lacerda Elevator and the Historic Center including Pelourinho. The market’s rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and cultural offerings make it a unique symbol of Salvador's commercial and cultural identity.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Mercado Modelo is during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience. Purchasing souvenirs early in the day is recommended for the best selection. Visitors are advised to explore the traditional Bahian restaurants inside for authentic local cuisine. Tickets are not required for entry as it is a public market, but planning your visit to coincide with cultural events in the nearby Historic Center can enhance the experience. Be mindful of your belongings as the market can be busy, and consider guided tours to learn more about the market's history and surroundings.
Datos interesantes
- •Mercado Modelo is visited by approximately 80% of tourists to Salvador, making it one of the city’s top attractions.
- •The market occupies the former 19th-century Customs House building, which is listed by Brazil's National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN).
- •The market has survived several major fires, including a devastating one in 1969 that destroyed the original building.
- •A famous Brazilian song titled "Mercado Modelo" laments the 1969 fire and was recorded by singer Vanusa in 1973.
- •On the site of the original market building, a sculpture called the Monument to the City of Salvador by Mário Cravo Júnior was erected.
Historia
Mercado Modelo was established in 1912 as a supply center in Salvador’s Lower City, initially located near the old Customs House built in the 1860s.
The market suffered multiple fires: a minor one in 1917, a significant fire in 1922 that caused extensive damage, another partial destruction in 1943, and the most devastating fire in 1969 that destroyed the original building.
Following this, the market was relocated in 1971 to the preserved 19th-century neoclassical Customs House building, which is now a protected historic site.
Another fire in 1984 led to renovations and its reopening in 1984.
Throughout its history, Mercado Modelo has evolved from a traditional supply market to a major tourist and cultural landmark in Salvador.
Guía del lugar
Former Customs House Building19th century
The current Mercado Modelo is housed in the historic 19th-century neoclassical Customs House, a protected architectural landmark featuring two floors and 8,410 square meters of space. The building's neoclassical style and heritage status reflect its importance to Salvador’s history.
Handicraft Stores
Mercado Modelo contains 266 stores offering the largest variety of Bahian handicrafts, gifts, and souvenirs, showcasing local artisanship and cultural traditions from the Bahia region.
Traditional Bahian Restaurants
Within the market are two of Salvador’s most traditional Bahian restaurants: Maria de São Pedro, with over eighty years of history, and Camafeu de Oxóssi, both offering authentic regional cuisine and cultural dining experiences.
Monument to the City of Salvador
Erected at the original site of Mercado Modelo after the 1969 fire destroyed the initial market building, this sculpture by Mário Cravo Júnior commemorates the city’s history and cultural heritage.
