The Municipal Market was inaugurated this week following a €1.7 million refurbishment.

The inauguration of the renovated São Bartolomeu de Messines Municipal Market took place in a festive atmosphere on March 28. The event was marked by the unveiling of an inaugural plaque by Rosa Palma, President of the Municipal Council of Silves, Aquiles Marreiros, Executive member of the Algarve 2030 Directive Committee, and Carla Benedito, President of the Parish Council of São Bartolomeu de Messines.

The refurbishment, which began in April 2022, represents an investment of over €1.7 million, with €680 thousand being co-financed by CRESC Algarve 2020 and the European Investment Bank.

The project involved a significant overhaul of the existing facilities. This encompassed a complete renovation of the building’s interior and exterior spaces, including the water supply and sanitation networks, electrical installations, telecommunications, and the surrounding road network.

The market’s functional reorganisation included relocating the sales counters and renovating the floor, roof, and terraces. The pedestrianisation and requalification of Rua Dr José Ventura Duarte and Rua José Rodrigues Martins were also part of the project, where car access is now limited to loading and unloading, enhancing the local commerce dynamics.

The intervention focused on safeguarding the building’s original architectural design and heritage while simultaneously introducing contemporary elements. It responded to legal requirements regarding hygiene, safety, mobility, and the need to modernise working conditions. According to the municipality, “the requalification updated the space while honouring its tradition and significance in the local economy”.

The São Bartolomeu de Messines Municipal Market is part of the Regional Network of Local Markets, a project that aims to develop dynamic activity to revive commerce, products, and local producers, as well as strengthen consumers’ connection with local and regional production. It also emphasises the significance of consuming locally sourced products.