The Mercado dos Lavradores - Farmers' Market in Funchai, Madeira

Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market) in Funchal, Madeira* The Mercado dos Lavradores is a vibrant cultural and commercial hub in Funchal, Madeira, renowned for its fresh produce, traditional architecture, and lively atmosphere. Here’s a detailed overview: - *Location*: Situated in the historic Santa Maria area, central Funchal . - *History*: Designed by architect Edmundo Tavares and inaugurated in 1940, the market blends *Art Deco* and *Estado Novo* architectural styles, reflecting Madeira’s mid-20th-century modernization . - *Structure*: A three-story building with a fish market on the ground floor, meat and vegetable stalls on the upper floors, and floral displays throughout . 1. *Architectural Highlights* - The façade and fish market area are adorned with **Azulejos** (traditional Portuguese tiles) created by João Rodrigues, depicting regional themes . - The tiles were produced by the Faience Battistini factory, adding historical and artistic value . 2. *Sections of the Market* - *Fruits & Vegetables*: Offers exotic varieties like 10+ types of passion fruit (e.g., apple, banana, and tomato passion fruit) and small, flavorful Madeiran bananas. - *Fish Market*: Highlights the *peixe espada preto* (black scabbardfish), a deep-sea delicacy central to Madeiran cuisine. - *Flower Stalls*: Reflect Madeira’s nickname as the "Garden of the Atlantic," selling plants, seeds, and vibrant blooms. - Hours: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Closed Sundays and holidays . - Best Time to Visit: Friday mornings for the busiest and most authentic experience . - Avoid Tourist Traps: Prices can be higher for tourists, especially near staircases. Head to upper floors or stalls frequented by locals for better deals . - Tastings: Sample exotic fruits (e.g., passion fruit, sugar cane) freely offered by vendors .