Market of Ribeira

The Mercado da Ribeira, located in the lively neighborhood of Cais do Sodré in Lisbon, is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the culinary and cultural heart of the city. Founded in 1882, this market has a rich and fascinating history that reflects the evolution of the city itself. Originally known as Mercado 24 de Julho, Mercado da Ribeira was built by order of King José I in 1771, after the devastating earthquake of 1755 that destroyed much of Lisbon. Designed by engineer Ressano Garcia, the market was a cutting-edge structure for its time, with an imposing oriental dome and a central corridor equipped with a water system for the preservation of fresh products. This innovative layout not only improved hygiene, but also facilitated the management and sale of food products. Over the decades, the market has undergone various transformations and renovations. A fire in 1893 destroyed much of the original structure, leading to its complete reconstruction in 1930. The new version of the market, designed by architect João Piloto, included an oriental dome and tile decorations made by Jorge Colaço, famous for his thematic panels on the sea. Today, Mercado da Ribeira is divided into two main areas. The eastern part continues to function as a traditional market, where residents can buy fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and flowers every morning. This section maintains the authentic charm of the market, with vendors offering high-quality local products. The western part, on the other hand, was transformed into the renowned Time Out Market in 2014. Managed by Time Out Lisboa magazine, this space has become a gastronomic landmark in Lisbon, hosting some of the city’s best chefs and restaurants. The Time Out Market is a paradise for food lovers, with 28 gastronomic stalls and 8 bars offering a wide range of dishes, from traditional Portuguese flavors to international creations. Among the renowned names operating here are Henrique Sá Pessoa and Alexandre Silva, both Michelin-starred chefs. The market offers the opportunity to taste specialties such as bacalhau à Brás, Portuguese codfish, and francesinha, a hearty sandwich typical of Porto, as well as innovative dishes that combine fresh ingredients and modern techniques. In addition to its culinary offerings, Mercado da Ribeira is also a center of social and cultural life. The first floor houses the restaurant Pap’açorda, famous for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, and Rive Rouge, a bar that turns into a nightclub on weekends. Furthermore, the Time Out Market hosts the Estúdio Time Out, a versatile space that hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. From a historical perspective, Mercado da Ribeira has always played a central role in Lisbon’s commercial life. Since medieval times, Lisbon was a point of arrival for goods from Africa, Brazil, and the East, which were then distributed throughout Europe. This market helped solidify the city’s reputation as an important commercial and cultural hub. The market is easily accessible thanks to its strategic location near the Cais do Sodré train station, which connects it to the rest of the city and the surrounding region. Its proximity to the Tagus River and the lively Rua Nova do Carvalho, known as “Pink Street,” makes it an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore Lisbon’s nightlife.