Mercado Modelo (Modelo Market), Salvador (must see)

Modelo Market is a handicraft market in one of the oldest and most traditional commercial districts of Salvador. The market is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions due to its unique nature, proximity to the Lacerda Elevator, and architecture.

The market was designed in the Neoclassical architectural style in 1860. Construction of the market was finally completed in 1911. It opened as a crafts market for the first time in 1912.

Modelo Market was created to provide a commercial center. It was necessary to have a central location for the city's booming population to purchase food and animals. Shoppers could also find cigars and distilled spirits called "cachacas" at the Model Mall.

The building consists of two floors with more than 250 stores. Most of the tenants sell handmade gifts, crafts, and souvenirs. There are also traditional restaurants in the market that offer local cuisine.

The market has suffered from numerous fires over the years. The most serious one occurred in the 1980s. After the devastation that was left in the fire's wake, the market was reconstructed in 1984.