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Customs Square: A Historic Heart of Florianópolis

Explore Florianópolis' Customs Square: A historic landmark blending culture, commerce, and leisure in the city's vibrant heart.

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Customs Square (Largo da Alfândega) in Florianópolis is a vibrant public space with historical significance, dating back to the 18th century when it served as a customs checkpoint. Today, it's a hub of culture, commerce, and leisure, surrounded by historical buildings and offering a glimpse into the city's past and present.

A brief summary to Customs Square

  • R. Conselheiro Mafra, Florianópolis, Centro, State of Santa Catarina, 88010-400, BR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Check for local events or exhibitions happening in the square to enhance your experience.
  • Explore the Municipal Public Market for local food and artisan souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Centro area of Florianópolis, Customs Square is easily accessible by foot. From the Mercado Público (Public Market) on R. Dom Jaime Câmara, head north until you reach R. Conselheiro Mafra. Turn right and walk straight for approximately 5 minutes. Customs Square will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Florianópolis has a well-developed bus network. Several bus lines connect to the Ticen (Centro Integration Terminal), which is a short walk from Customs Square. From Ticen, head east on Av. Paulo Fontes, then turn right onto R. Conselheiro Mafra. The square will be on your right. A single bus fare costs R$4.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in Florianópolis. A short taxi ride from the Florianópolis city center to Customs Square will typically cost between R$15 and R$25, depending on traffic. The base fare for a taxi is R$8.0, with an additional R$3.3 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Customs Square

Largo da Alfândega, or Customs Square, is a historically rich and culturally vibrant square in the heart of Florianópolis, Brazil. Dating back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the square was originally a crucial commercial port, serving as a customs checkpoint for goods entering and leaving the city. The neoclassical Alfândega building, which once housed the customs office, still stands and now hosts the Centro da Cultura Popular and Galeria do Artesanato, showcasing the culture and craftsmanship of Santa Catarina. Over the years, the square has undergone several renovations, most recently reopening on February 8, 2020, revitalizing the 13,865 square meter space. The redesign includes decks, paving, accessibility features, landscaping, and water features that mark the former sea line before land reclamation. A striking metallic cover, reminiscent of bobbin lace, a craft brought by Azorean immigrants, provides shade. Today, Largo da Alfândega is a bustling meeting point for locals and tourists. It's surrounded by historic buildings like the Municipal Public Market, opened in 1898, where visitors can sample local delicacies such as oysters and fresh seafood. During the day, the square is filled with people exploring the market and artisan goods. At night, it transforms into a social hub with bars, restaurants, live music, and cultural performances. Customs Square is open 24 hours a day, offering a blend of history, culture, and leisure for everyone visiting Florianópolis.

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