We were strolling in the Mercado da Ribeira, when we noticed this shop. At first sight it just seems like a regular souvenir shop, but when we get closer we noticed that the stuff they sell is a little different from the standard same-old same-old in every shop. Turns out Toranja is a team of over 50 Portuguese artists. They produce cushions, totes, t-shirts, posters, mobile phone covers, mugs, coasters and more using the illustrations and photographs of these artists.
I always enjoy shopping for products by local artists when I travel, it's a nice way to support local economies while finding something unique as a memento. It's a win-win. I am therefore really glad to stumble upon Toranja. The guy manning the booth, Valdo, is really friendly and super helpful. There are some products that are distinctly Portuguese, like illustrations of the streets, the tram, the azulejos and the Galo de Barcelos, that make for great souvenirs, and others that are just plain beautiful.
They also have a website which is a full store, with many products that may not be available in the store due to space limitation.
Highly recommend you stop by to get something special and support local artists! read more