Structure | The Building | Map | Administration | ASCOMM

The actual structure that houses the Mercado Modelo commenced construction in 1845, and was inaugurated in 1868 to function as the third Customs House in Salvador.

With its traditonal forms from the second half of the 19th Century, it became the second great neo-classic work in Salvador. With a square design and a circular construction at the rear, its rounded form has no parallel in Brazilian architecture. The building has been protected by IPHAN – the National Historic and Artistic Heritage since 1966.

As a result of a miscalculation of the ocean tides, the basement levels are constantly flooded, necessitating the use of pumps to extract the excess water.

Originally constructed with three floors, including the basement, in 1971 the building gained an additional mezanine, to accommodate the administration rooms, the toilets and the hairdressers.

The total constructed area of 8.410 m2 comprises a length of 69,56 meters and width of 46,72 meters.

After the fire of 1984, the building underwent a complete reconstruction, once again in keeping with the original architectural plan. Also as before, certain modifications were introduced during the process such as pre-moulded concrete and a covering of colonial tiles, iron stairs and a fire prevention system.

The historic building with its neo-classic structures offers another reason for you to get to know the Mercado Modelo.

Click here and see the map of the building.