In 1841, several farmer markets in Porto merged with the fruits and vegetable fair and relocated to the Bolhão Plaza in the middle of downtown. Built on marshy terrain, the plaza owes its peculiar name to the large water bubbles formed in a stream that crossed the swamp. 

With the city’s population on the rise, the market outgrew its humble beginnings. In 1911, architect António Correia da Silva was entrusted with constructing a new market. Having studied in Paris, his monumental design drew heavily on the Beaux-Arts style.  Inside, the decor featured simple white tiles accentuated by elegant ironworks, creating a blank canvas where the vibrant produce could shine.

After its inauguration in 1914, the Bolhão market quickly earned its place as a city hallmark. “Going to Bolhão” became a common expression. At Bolhão, the city and the countryside came together to trade fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, and other delights. Moreover, the market was a place for exchanging ideas and discussing current events. 

In 2022, Bolhão underwent a splendid renovation that preserved its historical charm. It is the perfect place to savor a glass of wine and some petiscos (the Portuguese word for tapas) while chatting with the vendors about what’s happening. You will not know Porto without going to Bolhão.