Central Market
If you want to see what a traditional market looks like, you cannot miss the Central Market, which is located on Plaza Mayor, next to the cathedral and bell tower. This is a market that offers a rich and diverse range of food products, such as fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, bread, spices, and many others.
The Central Market was built in 1929 by architect Francesc Maristany, on the site where the old market was located. It is a building of modern and functional architecture, which combines elements of iron, glass, and ceramics. Its facade is divided into three parts, with the middle one being higher and protruding forward.
On the ground floor, there are windows with wrought iron grates, on the first floor windows with balconies and pilasters, and on the second floor windows with cornices. At the top of the facade, there is a triangular pediment with the city’s coat of arms and the inscription “Mercado Central”. The whole is topped with a balustrade with vases and statues.
The interior of the Central Market is richly stocked and organized, preserving many original elements and furniture. It is worth paying attention to the beautiful stairs made of marble and wood, which lead to the upper floors. On the ground floor, there are stalls with fish and seafood, which impress with their freshness and variety. On the first floor, there are stalls with meat and cold cuts, which impress with their quality and taste. On the second floor, there are stalls with vegetables and fruits, which impress with their color and aroma.
The Central Market is not only a market, but also a center of culture and entertainment. In the market and its surroundings, you can find various attractions and entertainment, such as bars, restaurants, cafes, shops, clubs, schools, rentals, or zones, where you can try and buy local products and specialties, such as arroz al horno, paella, fideuà, torraeta, coca de tomaca, pastissets, or carajillos.
