The açaí market is held at the foot of the fort. This small black fruit is renowned for being rich in vitamin B1, magnesium and iron. It is so nourishing that it is a staple of the inhabitants of the Amazon, who consume it in juice or sorbet form. Considered a natural anabolic steroid, more and more Brazilians are using it to hone a perfect body. Baskets overflowing with açaí arrive in their hundreds on the quays from 5am, in a bustle of porters and negotiators whose every move can cause the world's açaí trading prices to fluctuate!