The Ferreira Borges Market

What a beautiful red iron structure we have right here! Built in 1885 by the city council, the Ferreira Borges Market was to replace the former Mercado da Ribeira. A great idea at first, but the merchants too fond of this place refused to leave. Consequently, the new market never managed to fulfill its original purpose, which is maybe a good thing as the good-looking glass hall has now become the “Hard Club”, a cultural venue hosting exhibitions, fairs, and even concerts. Successfully repurposed, this building is a tribute to José Ferreira Borges, a jurist and politican who defended Portuguese Liberalism during the 18th and 19th centuries.