An architecturally important building that is between Barcelona Cathedral and the Picasso Museum. Mercat de Santa Caterina highlights Barcelona unique modernist architecture.
Built in 1844 and opened 1848 the Mercat de Santa Caterina, designed by Josep Mas i Vila and Josep Buxareu in neoclassical and contemporary style and upgraded in 2005 by architects Benedetta Taglibue and Enric Miralles.
The market is built on land that once belonging to the Convent of Santa Caterina founded in 1243 and demolished in 1837. Some items that were recovered from the convent can be seen on display at the market.
Undoubtedly, its most striking feature is its wave like coloured roof, a nod to Gaudí, maybe. The roof which is formed of metal panels and ceramic pieces are supported by steel tubular posts and columns. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most impressive and most colourful roofs of all Barcelona.
The main building’s facade is in the neoclassical style, and is in sharp contrast to the colourfull roof. In certain places, the wave shaped roof almost looks like it is melting as it flows down to street level. The building is unique as modern meets classical, while keeping the tradition of Catalan Modernism at the center of its design.
Inside the market, you can shop for all the best local produce. You will find fruit and vegetables, meats, cheese and fresh fish. There are several bars and restaurants where you can stop and enjoy some produce cooked and served to you. Visitors to this market will find it much less hectic than La Boqueria market and with more locals and much fewer tourists.
How To Get To Mercat Santa Caterina
The Mercat Santa Caterina is located on Avda de Francesc Cambò 16. Juame I is the closest metro station, served by metro line 4. Any bus that takes you to the Via Laietana will mean you are a few streets away from the market. You will find Mercat Santa Caterina a short walk from Barcelona Cathedral and the Picasso Museum.
The market is open from 07:30 in the morning until 15:00 on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. It is open from 07:30 until 20:00 on Tuesday and Thursday. On Friday it is open from 07:30 until 20:30.
