аÄÃÅ¿ª½±½á¹û

By Jorge Andrade- Wikimedia

Top 7 Facts about the Fortaleza Central Market

Fortaleza is one of the largest cities in Brazil and certainly one of the liveliest. This sprawling urban hub is found in the northeastern part of Brazil.

The city is the capital of the state of Ceara that welcomes thousands of foreign tourists every year. There is a lot to do in this city from the beaches, contemporary restaurants and the vibrant nightlife.

One place that is a must-visit while in Fortaleza is its central market. It is part of the historical centre full of beautiful sights and museums.

The building housing this market has a beautiful architectural design and is spacious. It is the best place to shop for anything you want because you can get the best deal by haggling.

This central market was not always as it is now. Here are the top 10 facts about Fortaleza Central Market.

1. It was first opened in the 19^th century

This market started off as a meat, fruit and vegetable market back in 1809. It was made of a small wooden building.

Later in 1931, the Brazilian government banned the sale of meat products within the market. The traders at the market were forced to switch to selling crafts.

A modern market was built in 1998 to upgrade to facilities and create more space for both the traders and shoppers.

There are four floors at this market sprawling with shops selling textile, woven hammocks, paintings, sculptures, bags, clothes and many other items.

2. Fortaleza central Market started off as a meat market

Photo by Natalie Ng on Unsplash

As mentioned above, the market was opened in 1809. It was made of wood and the main products that were sold here were meat, vegetables and fruits.

A few years later, in 1814, the city council demolished the old market and constructed a new one. The new market was called the Kitchen of the people.

Later in 1931, the traders started selling crafts and other decorative stuff after the government banned selling meat at the market.

When you visit the market you will find clothing, bedding and tableware, cashew by-products, beverages and candy.

3. The renovated market was designed by architect Luiz Fiúza

The central market was not renovated for a long time. The number of traders at the market increased and so did the buyers.

This increase was a risk to the building which was at a precarious state and fears of fire at the market with no escape routes.

The traders demanded reforms at the market and a new building was built adjacent to the old one. These new facilities were designed by architect Luiz Fiúza.

In 1975, the market was fully renovated and reopened, occupying a space of 1,200 square meters. At that time, Fortaleza became an important tourist destination in Brazil.

It has since been viewed as a centre for cultural attraction in Brazil.

4. Selling of meat and fruits was prohibited in this market

Photo by Lodewijk Hertog on Unsplash

The Central Market of Fortaleza specializes in artisanal products from Ceará. This market is owned by the city hall.

When the market was first opened, the traders sold meat and vegetables.

This was however prohibited in 1931 by the town council. No specific reason was given for this move but the traders quickly adapted to selling other products.

5. Fortaleza Central Market is the largest in Latin America

The Central market which began in 1809, sold meats, fruits and vegetables. This was later followed by the sale of craft boxes in the early 1990s.

It created opportunities for artisans and traders who brought about a cultural vibe to the market.

Today, the Central Market is known as the birthplace of art and culture. It is actually the most ideal place to find hammocks, embroidery, maze, steak, bed and table.

There are restaurants and snack bars with typical north-eastern foods.

6. Locally handcrafted goods are found in Fortaleza Central Market

By Jorge Andrade-Wikimedia

The Central Market of Fortaleza is the second largest in Brazil that sells local handicrafts and products.

Its location is advantageous since it is in the city centre. It is also located close to other city attractions making it even more convenient.

One of the main attractions in the city of Ceara is the public promenade and the Church of the See.

There are daily shows by local artists such as sanfoneiros repentistas at the market.

7. You can get a taste of Korean foods and sweets at Fortaleza Central Market

The Fortaleza Central market features a variety of items such as biscuits, ramen, snacks, chocolates, drinks and ingredients for Asian cuisine.

There is a Korean market that initially targeted the Koreans who worked on the construction of the Pecém steel mill.

Later, local Brazilians loved their products leading to increase in demand for Korean products.

The wide variety of products at the market are directly imported from South Korea and sold at affordable prices to customers.