Florianopolis Public Market

The Florianópolis Public Market was built next to the old Customs House, in 1899, replacing the old market that existed in Largo da Matriz.

In addition to being a busy commercial center, the Florianópolis Public Market is a meeting point for both residents and tourists. Perhaps that is why it is considered one of the most democratic spaces on the island, as it brings together artists, politicians, bohemians, business people and common people in one place, without distinction. In the bars and restaurants it is possible to taste different dishes of the local gastronomy, with emphasis on the cockle pastel and the portions of shrimp and fried fish, all always well accompanied by a super cold draft beer.

The central span of the Florianópolis Public Market is also the stage for folkloric and artistic presentations from the region, with performances by the papaya ox or in lively samba and pagode circles.

The First Markets

The history of the first places to trade fish and foodstuffs in the center of the then Vila de Desterro, current Florianópolis, were, for a long time, in conflict with hygiene and public order in the points where they were located.

Initially, products from the mainland and parishes were exposed on the beach, on the sand. Later, open-air stalls were erected to display the goods.

In 1838, a first public market project was proposed on the site between the current streets Trajano and Deodoro. However, the controversial location generated fervent debates in the population. Only in March 1848, through a decree, the president of the Province was authorized to “build a Market Square in the navies in front of the Igreja Matriz da Cidade do Desterro, following the plan that accompanies the present law”. The plant, created by 1st Lieutenant Eng. João de Souza Melo e Alvim, was approved to replace the project for the three sheds of Councilman Antônio Francisco de Faria.

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The work took three years to complete, and the official opening took place only in 1851. This Market remained in use for 45 years, until 1899, when it was demolished after the construction of the current Market. Its demolition left a square in its place, which was embellished with trees that remained until 1917, when they were replaced by the current Praça Fernando Machado.

The Current Public Market of Florianópolis

The current Florianópolis Public Market was built in two stages: the first, between 1896 and 1899, had only one wing. Later, in 1912, the work was complemented with ramps, sheds and a roof that joined the entire length of the side facing the sea. It was only between 1928 and 1931 that the second wing was built, as well as the towers, the bridges that connect them and the central span. In July 2016, the central span received a roof made up of an automated metallic structure, covered with a membrane made of polyester yarn fabric, covered by a mass of polymers with PVC and protected by acrylic varnish on both sides. According to the Florianópolis City Hall, the coverage cost at least R$ 4,2 million.

Fires and Revitalization Works

Among the fires recorded in the Florianópolis Public Market, the ones that had the greatest repercussion were those that occurred on June 06, 1998, when, during a renovation, a gas leak started the flames. The fire was quickly brought under control and the fire did not compromise the structure of the building.

On August 19, 2005, around 8:20 am, a new fire destroyed the north wing, facing Rua Conselheiro Mafra. The flames started in the kitchen, located on the mezzanine floor of Box 15, in an electric fryer. The fire completely destroyed the inner area on this side of the market, but there were no casualties.

Restoration works on the affected parts began on September 12 of the same year. The façade was maintained, but the internal part now houses 51 stalls, 22 stores, three snack bars, in addition to an administration and tourist service room. New male and female restrooms were also built, adapted for people with physical disabilities. With the fire, the old wooden structure to support the roof was replaced by another in galvanized steel, following the same pattern as the old one. Ceramic tiles of the French type were used on the roof.

On January 03, 2013, another fire hit the Florianópolis Public Market in the north wing. The fire started around 0:15 am and was restricted to box 44, selling shoes, and in a few minutes it was brought under control. Because it happened at dawn, while the place was closed, no one was hurt.

In 2013, the Florianópolis Public Market was closed again for revitalization works. A bidding process was held for the occupation of the 114 boxes and the works started, first, in the north wing. On June 02, 2014, this wing was reopened, with 61 of the 79 stalls empty.

opening hours

The stores are open from Monday to Friday from 7 am to 19 pm and on Saturdays from 7 am to 14 pm. They don't open on Sundays. Bars will be open on weekdays until 22pm and on weekends and holidays until 17pm.

address and phone 

Rua Conselheiro Mafra, 255 – Downtown.
(48) 3225-8464