Mercado dos Escravos

Description

The Mercado dos Escravos is a Monument of Public Interest and is a must-visit for those interested in learning about Lagos’s dark past. Said to be the site of Europe’s first slave market, Mercado dos Escravos is where African slaves were captured and brought in 1444, and then sold to the highest bidders. The building seen today however goes back to 1691 and served as Customs House. Visitors will come across an art gallery; the Slave Market Museum, on the ground floor of the building which features items belonging to the slaves brought in, as well as a skeleton of one. Those visiting the building should also make it a point to see the statue of Henry the Navigator which is situated in the square outside the Old Customs House.    

Ticket Price

1.50€

Opening Hour

Throughout the day

Recommended Visit Duration

Around 30 minutes or more

Suitable For

Adults, senior visitors, young adults, families

Must See

The confiscated possessions    

Prayer Facilities

Muslims visiting the Mercado dos Escravos will not be able to find prayer facilities at the attraction, nor will they be able to locate any mosques or Islamic Centers in the town of Lagos. Muslim visitors will therefore have to find a secluded place to offer their prayers, and if unable to, they will have to return to their hotel rooms at prayer times.

Halal Food

Visitors will be able to find numerous cafés and restaurants in the town of Lagos. While there are plenty of dining options, Muslim tourists will have to dine on suitable seafood and vegetarian dishes, as there are no known Halal restaurants in Lagos, and non-Halal ingredients are sure to be used at most restaurants.