As I described in an earlier post, the architecture found in the City of Arts and Sciences was a key reason for me wanting to visit Valencia. Molly has always wanted to visit Valencia. The Central Market, or Mercado Central, of Valencia is why Molly has been talking about moving to Valencia ever since we visited. Anyone that has spent time with Molly knows … she has a thing for grocery shopping. Particularly in European markets. Especially in Spain. She has a good point. For many residents of Valencia, shopping at this market is a daily event. This certainly seems far more healthy and fulfilling than our monthly excursion through Costco with a cart larger than some European trucks.
Covering 86,000 Sqft, the Mercado Central is one of the largest markets in Europe. Finished in 1928, the structure’s combination of iron, glass, and tile is a magnificent representation of the Art Nouveau genre. This market is a real market. Many ‘markets’ in Europe, such as the Market of San Miguel in Madrid, have transformed themselves into more upscale tourist friendly destinations. There is nothing wrong with that. Those places are great. We are, after all, tourists. Those ‘markets’ offer a variety of prepared foods, crafts, tapas, and restaurants. Not here. This market is here to feed Valencia, and it is amazing.
From 7:30am to 3:00pm Monday through Saturday, the Mercado Central is where much of Valencia comes to get their groceries. According to the market’s website, of the 259 stalls, only 15 sell things other than food. That is probably what they would call some of the things that we eat in the United States. While there are 12 stalls providing prepared food, the rest are there to supply the ingredients that will feed the residents of Valencia … as well as a few awe stricken tourists. There are 70 butcher stalls, 51 fruit and vegetable stalls, 33 fish and seafood stalls which are set into their own separate area, and 15 bakery stalls. The remaining 63 stalls sell everything from spices (Molly’s source for replenishing her saffron supply), to cheese, pickled products, and Fruit-Loops.
The market is beautiful, and provides a great subject for photography, particularly early in the morning. By 6:00am, the market begins to come to life (unlike Molly). Deliveries of all conceivable food products converge at each entrance to the market. Vendors begin artfully preparing presentations of food. Meanwhile, the group of small cafes around the market caffeinate and cater to the troupe of vendors who perform this well rehearsed symphony. On a cool crisp January morning, there is something special about enjoying a hot Churro and Chocolate on the steps of the Mercado Central in Valencia after doing your morning grocery shopping. Hey Molly, how much was that apartment overlooking the market ?
