Central Market

About this place

Maputo's Central Market is a long old building in the middle of the capital, with a faded blue and yellow front topped by a small blue dome. Also known as the Municipal Market, it brings together vegetables, fruit, spices and seafood under one roof. It is the best place in the city to see what people eat here and to shop in the morning at everyday prices. It was built in the early 20th century, in the days of Lourenço Marques, close to the harbour and the railway station, and became the centre of the city's food trade. It still plays the same part, though the city has changed around it. Its importance comes from its place between the port and the old districts, and residents of the capital still come here daily. You enter by a large gateway into roofed aisles on iron columns, with tables of red tomatoes, bananas, potatoes and vegetables on each side. Other sections hold bright spices, hot peppers, rice and beans, with fresh and dried fish and prawns in the wing nearby. Small sellers fill the corners, and bargaining and laughter carry through the aisles all morning. It is under half a kilometre from the Central Railway Station in a straight line and about 600 metres from the cathedral. Go in the morning, when goods are fresh and the air is cooler. Bargain politely, and keep your bag and phone safe in the crowds. Ask before photographing sellers, as many prefer it. Bring cash in small notes.