Mercado do Artesanato
The Mercado do Artesanato is Angola's largest square where pieces representing national culture and a little of Africa's history are sold. It is located south of Luanda; the square has been operational for over 30 years; its former location was in the Benfica district; the market is now located in Morro da Cruz, close to the National Slavery Museum.
In the Mercado do Artesanato, you will find the history of the Angolan people divided by tribes. In Angola, there are three ethnic groups: the Ovimbundu, who make up the majority of the population, the Kikongo, and the Bacangos, who make up the smallest percentage of the population.
The market has been considered an institution for those interested in handicrafts since the 1990s. This is a venue in the capital where around 700 vendors meet every day to exhibit around 10,000 pieces. The most popular pieces among collectors of this art are statues, such as the famous "Pensador," and traditional masks, such as the Mwana Pwo. The statues in the Mercado do Artesanato are made of wood trunks in brown, white, and black hues. The trunk of black-colored wood is a rare wood that only exists in Angola and is used to carve works. This black wood is born in the middle of a brown wood trunk. Visitors to the market will, however, find colorful paintings, antiques, and other handcrafted items.
- Google Rating: 4.1/5
- Phone: 244937528395
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sun - 8:00 to 18:00
- Address: Ingombota, Rua n68 Rainha Ginga, loja n74, Luanda, Angola
