Portugal

objects that you might find baffling, but which exert powerful iconic appeal to the Portuguese.
What, for example, are soaps by Claus Porti, and how, exactly, should that
kitschy plastic model of Saint Anthony be constructed and at what time of the year? Look
for lavender waters, kitchen tools, handicrafts, artists’ supplies, books, and pomades that
evoke waves of memories for the Portuguese. Rua Anchieta 11. & 21/346-50-73. www.avida
portuguesa.com. Metro: Chiado.
Empório Casa Bazar In the Príncipe real district, this is like some vast emporium of
flea market kitsch, and, as such, is one of the most amusing stores in Lisbon. Expect
one-of-a-kind gift or household items that might have come from anywhere, certainly
Iberia, but also Italy or Brazil. You might pass over those plastic Portuguese saints but
latch onto some enchanting Portuguese ceramics. Rua Dom Pedro V 65. & 21/096-40-93.
www.emporiocasa.pt. Metro: Rato.
Markets
See also the Ribeira Nova market in the “Secrets of Lisbon” box on p. 130.
Feira da Ladra Nearly everything you can imagine is for sale at this open-air street
market, which competes with the flea markets of Madrid and Paris in terms of surprising
finds. Vendors peddle their wares on Tuesday and Saturday; for the finest pickings, go in
the morning. The market is about a 5-minute walk from the waterfront in the Alfama
district or a short walk from the Estação Santa Apolónia metro stop. It’s best to start your
browsing at Campo de Santa Clara and then work your way up the hilly street, lined with
portable stalls and individual displays. Note that haggling is expected here.
Metals
Casa Maciel Lda Founded in 1810 as a specialized tinker shop that created the city’s
best lanterns and original cake molds, this house has distinguished itself in numerous
national and international contests. You can select from the in-house patterns or have the
artisans create pieces from your designs; the store will also ship items. Rua da Misericórdia
63–65. & 21/342-24-51. Metro: Chiado. Tram: 28. Bus: 10, 24, 29, or 30.
Shopping Centers
Centro Colombo In the Luz district, this vast complex is the biggest shopping
center on the Iberian peninsula. Its array of merchandise is stunning, a dazzling
showcase of the capitalistic system, with more than 420 stores. There’s everything here
from an indoor amusement park to a health club, even 10 screens showing different
movies. For your dining selection, you face a bewildering choice of 60 restaurants, ranging
from a pizza parlor to a Chinese eatery to Burger King. Avenida Lusíada. & 21/711-36-
36. Metro: Colégio Militar. .
Centro Vasco da Gama This modern shopping mall is hailed as the finest in Portugal,
with 164 shops, 36 restaurants, 10 movie theaters, a health club, and a playground.
Along with Portuguese-made products, you’ll also find a lot of designer labels in clothing,
including Vuitton and Hugo Boss selling at cheaper prices than you might find in other
western European capitals. The shops keep hours that benefit almost all customers:
They’re open daily 10am to midnight. Av. Dom João II within Parque das Nações. & 21/893-
06-00. www.centrovascodagama.pt. Metro: Estação Oriente.
151
EXPLORING LISBON 6
LISBON SHOPPING: FROM ANTIQUES TO WINE