Nestled in the heart of Valencia’s upmarket Ensanche district, ‘Mercado de Colón’ is a striking fusion of modernist architecture and gourmet tradition. First opened in 1916 and fully restored in the early 2000s, this historic market has evolved from a place for locals to buy fresh produce into a refined gastronomic and cultural experience.
The building, designed by architect Francisco Mora Berenguer, stands as a monument to Valencian Art Nouveau. Its grand entranceways of red brick and ornate ironwork immediately draw the eye, while the sweeping glass-and-steel canopy arches overhead, bathing the interior in natural light. Every tile and curve reflects the same regional pride that once inspired the city’s Central Market, but Mercado de Colón brings a more contemporary, cosmopolitan flair.
Today, the market is home to a vibrant mix of speciality food stalls, artisan boutiques and curated eateries. Walking through its central corridor, visitors will find fresh seafood stands like Martín & Mary, where langoustines and fish are kept perfectly chilled under crushed ice. On weekends, the market hosts stalls selling handmade goods, including natural incense, locally designed clothing, and jewellery from emerging artisans like Oriana Lee and Michietelle.
The ground floor brims with life throughout the day. Casa Orxata serves up organic horchata made from local chufas, while Horchatería Daniel offers a more traditional take on this refreshing Valencian drink. Cafés like Mi Cub and Bocados provide ideal spaces to sip coffee under the shelter of the iron beams. Whether you’re in the mood for an artisanal pastry, a chilled vermouth or a gourmet tapa, the market delivers.
Beyond food and drink, Mercado de Colón has become a key gathering point for both locals and tourists. Its open interior makes it accessible to all, while its upper and lower levels offer quieter spots for those seeking lunch away from the bustle. The semi-basement floor features beer bars, wine cellars and delis offering everything from Spanish charcuterie to sushi, making it a popular evening destination.
Recent years have seen the introduction of pop-up cultural events and seasonal markets. In summer 2025, stalls showcasing handcrafted jewellery, sustainable home décor and breezy Mediterranean fashion filled the space, drawing a mix of shoppers and curious passersby. Prices remain accessible, with handcrafted necklaces selling for as little as 10 euros, and signature earrings starting at around 12 euros.
Despite its evolution into a high-end gourmet space, Mercado de Colón has preserved its spirit as a community hub. Its structure may suggest a cathedral of commerce, but its daily rhythm is distinctly human locals reading newspapers over cortados, children chasing pigeons outside, and marketgoers pausing to admire the floral stalls or the rhythm of live jazz on special afternoons.
Whether you’re here for breakfast, shopping, or simply to admire one of Valencia’s architectural treasures, Mercado de Colón offers a complete sensory experience. It is both a market and a meeting place, where heritage and innovation coexist under a canopy of glass and light.
Report by Elliot Fryatt
Photos copyright Elliot Fryatt/ ‘24/7 Valencia’
MERCADO DE COLÓN
C/ Cirilo Amorós y C/ Jorge Juan
46004
Valencia
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