Mercado dos Lavradores - Funchal, Madeira Island, Portugal

You know that feeling you get when you arrive (into a new town) and you find a place which just feels like the heart of the community? This was the exact feeling I had when I arrived in to Funchal, Madeira Island, Portugal. I quickly found the Mercado dos Lavradores shopping mecca which felt as the hub of town! Funchal is a historical town (of @ 100,000 people) spread across a beautiful mountainside with postcard-like ocean views.

In my 1 week (+) stay here (in this majestic city) I quickly learned of how the locals (and tourists alike) flock to this shopping center. Offering everything you'd find in a typical farmers market and so much more!

Constructed in the 1940s and only a few steps from the sea, it's no wonder why they have a huge fish market in the rear of this two story plaza. Blended with permanent retail stores along the perimeter (of this building) with smaller spaces (on the interior) which I believe are rented by seasonal vendors.

It was very cool to learn that Portugal is the world leader in the cork industry. I found everything from cork purses, hats, wallets, backpacks, etc as it seems they export 60% of the world demand.

Hopefully you enjoyed seeing what one of the oldest shopping centers (here on Madeira Island, Portugal) looks like during my recent visit.

Obrigado (thanks in Portuguese), Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

Nick Harbaugh