Mercat de Santa Caterina, Neoclassical and contemporary market in Sant Pere district, Barcelona, Spain.
The Mercat de Santa Caterina is a market with a modern roof and traditional stalls where vendors sell fresh vegetables, meat, fish, and regional specialties. The building combines contemporary design with the footprint of a place that has served generations of visitors.
The market opened in 1848 on the grounds of a former convent and shaped neighborhood life for more than a century. A major renovation in the 2000s modernized the building while preserving its core function.
Daily conversations with vendors reveal their knowledge of regional ingredients and dishes, keeping Catalan food traditions alive through personal connections. The sellers understand the story behind each product and share cooking advice with visitors.
The market sits in the old city, walkable from major neighborhoods and landmarks. Go early in the morning to see the best selection of fresh products and avoid crowds.
The roof is covered in colorful ceramic tiles arranged in a wavy pattern that mirrors the colors of fresh produce sold below. This design was innovative for its time and makes the building instantly recognizable from the outside.
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