Mercado de Colón

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The market's signature facade features intricate ceramic mosaics depicting scenes of Valencian agricultural life.

2. 2

   The structure was built to replace the open-air street markets that previously occupied the surrounding L'Eixample area.

3. 3

   It underwent an extensive rehabilitation project in the early 2000s to convert the historic trade hall into its current hospitality format.

4. 4

   The central pillars and the iron framework were innovative engineering feats for the city at the time of construction in the early 20th century.

5. 5

   The market serves as a popular venue for specialized events including craft markets and holiday floral displays.

Overview

Mercado de Colón is a former public market building in Valencia, converted into a high-end gastronomic and lifestyle hub. Designed by architect Francisco Mora Berenguer and completed in 1916, the structure is a primary example of Valencian Art Nouveau. The building features an open-plan iron structure with brick and ceramic cladding, characterized by two large vaulted naves and two smaller side ones. It was declared a National Monument in 1983. Today, the space houses a variety of restaurants, cafes, microbreweries, and specialized food stalls across its two levels. The basement level is integrated into the architectural structure and serves as a primary dining area. Its location in the L'Eixample neighborhood makes it a frequent social gathering point for locals.

Insider tips

• Visit during the afternoon hours to experience the 'vermut' culture, where locals congregate for pre-dinner drinks and appetizers.

• Check the lower level for more intimate, specialized dining experiences compared to the main hall floor.

• The market gets very crowded during local festival dates, so opt for weekday mornings if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.