Sao Miguel Mercado da Graça. A farmers Market you must visit

by Joaquim DeCarvalho

Historic Mercado da Graça in Ponta Delgada

mercado da graca – Ponta Delgada

The Mercado da Graça is a historic market located in the city of Ponta Delgada, which is the largest city on the island of São Miguel in the Azores archipelago of Portugal.

The market has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The construction of the market began in 1855, and it was completed in 1860. It was named after the nearby convent and chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça, which was built in the 17th century, and is now the Academy of Arts of Ponta Delgada. The market was designed by the architect Carlos Augusto de Mendonça Dias, who also designed several other important buildings in Ponta Delgada.

The Mercado da Graça was originally built to provide a central location for local farmers and fishermen to sell their products. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. In recent years, the market has been renovated and modernized, while still maintaining its historic charm and original architecture.

Today, the Mercado da Graça is a bustling market that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and traditional Azorean handicrafts. It is a vibrant hub of activity and a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the Azores.

Local Product Offering at Mercado da Graça

1. Fresh produce: The market is well known for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs, many of which are grown locally on the island.

2. Fruit: Particular to São Miguel, you’ll find the local ananás (pinneaple), locally grown in greenhouses, and anonas (cherimoya) which are abundant and of all sizes.

3. Seafood: The market offers a great selection of fresh seafood, such as tuna, swordfish, squid, octopus, and various types of shellfish.

4. Meat: You can also find fresh meat products, including beef, pork, and chicken, as well as local specialties such as chouriço (smoked sausage which has nothing to do with chorizo), linguiça and morcela, a locally made blood sausage which can be baked and served with pineapple.

5. Cheese: The Azores are known for their delicious cheeses, and the market has a wide variety of options to choose from, including fresh cow’s milk cheese, goat’s milk cheese, and aged cheeses.

6. Handicrafts: The market also features stalls selling traditional Azorean handicrafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, lace, and woven baskets.

7. Flowers and plants: You can find beautiful flowers and plants at the market, including orchids, hydrangeas, and succulents.

8. Local specialties: The market also has stalls selling traditional Azorean products, such as local jams, honey, tea, and liqueurs made from local fruit and herbs.

Where is Mercado de Graça located

Mercado da Graça is located at Rua do Mercado 15, Ponta Delgada. It is easily accessed by walking from the city center.

Overall, the Mercado da Graça is a great place to experience the local flavors and culture of Ponta Delgada, São Miguel and the Azores.