Olhão a traditional Portuguese market

Olhão a traditional Portuguese market town that is one of the most popular trips of the central Algarve region. Olhão makes for an enjoyable tour, as it provides interesting historic monuments, a lively market and a traditional Portuguese atmosphere The local culture, the shopping in the street, the market square, make Olhão an admirable visit. Finally the view over the Ria Formosa. The iconic Olhão Market, housed in two historic red-brick buildings. We will explore the vibrant stalls filled with fresh Atlantic fish, seafood, and colorful local produce. The history of the Olhão Market is deeply tied to the city’s maritime identity and early 20th-century architectural progress. Origins (19th Century): The first covered fish market appeared in 1866, but it was a very simple structure, often described as a mere 'shed.' The Current Buildings (1912–1916): As the population grew, the local government decided to build a modern and functional facility. Construction began in 1912, and the two twin buildings were inaugurated between 1915 and 1916. The two rectangular red-brick pavilions with circular glass towers are divided into the Fish Market (east) and the Fruit and Vegetable Market (west). After extensive rehabilitation in the late 20th century, the markets reopened in 1998, preserving their iconic exterior while adding interior tile panels by artists Costa Pinheiro and António Pinheiro.