Boqueria Market
The Boqueria Market can be found on Barcelona's most famous pedestrian street, the Rambla. It is one of the oldest food markets in the world and the most popular in Europe. Immediately upon entering, it impresses with an abundance of goods, bright colors and crowded.
Description
Visitors are greeted by fruit and sweet rows: traditional Spanish apples, pears, cherries, strawberries, cherries, apricots, peaches are combined with pineapples, kiwis, bananas and other exotic fruits. A variety of sweets will satisfy the most demanding palate.
The glass and metal building of the Boqueria market, decorated with magnificent mosaics, occupies more than 2.5 thousand square meters. The market is considered a paradise for gourmets, it is famous for the excellent quality and freshness of products. Vegetables, fruits, meat, dairy products and, of course, seafood are all on sale in huge quantities.
The eloquence, benevolence, and persuasiveness of the merchants are among the main elements of local commerce. This is not surprising - the craft of salesmen is passed down from generation to generation. The indescribable aromas of spices excite the appetite, which can be easily satisfied in the numerous cafes and bars located right on the market. The most famous is the Pinotxo bar, along with a variety of delicious fish dishes, its menu includes a delicious potato omelet.
Iberico jam is considered one of the main products of the Boqueria market. Its exquisite taste captivates gourmets all over the world. Homemade bread soaked in tomato juice and olive oil makes you want to try it immediately. Tear cheeses, goat and sheep cheeses, soft and hard - it's hard to resist their splendor and taste.
The fish rows of the Boqueria market are a fascinating story in their own right. Shellfish, squid, octopus, cuttlefish - there is everything that is only found in the sea. The devil fish is very popular among the huge fish assortment. The scary-looking animal is said to have a unique taste and no small bones in it.
Fascinating cooking classes are held at the market, which invariably attract the attention of children and adults.
A bit of history
Back in 1217, tables for the sale of meat were set up outside the city walls. Since 1470, pigs have been sold. Merchants came from all over the area. The place of lively trade was gaining more and more popularity and was already called the "Straw Market". The name lasted until 1794.
The space of the Boqueria market was open, only the perimeter was surrounded by columns. It was considered a continuation of the market from Nova Square. Local farmers sold fish, meat and poultry here. In 1826, the city authorities finally recognized the market as independent, and its construction began. Construction began in March 1840 according to the project of architect Mas Vila. Work continued until 1846. The official opening date is 1853.
In 1911, the market was supplemented with a new fish market. In 1914, a metal roof appeared over the market, which still covers it. Geometric glass mosaic figures are harmoniously inscribed into the wrought-iron arch.
In 2005, international experts awarded the Boqueria market the title of the best market in the world. In 2012, CNN named it the best pleasure market.
The Boqueria Market, also known as San Josep or San Jose, is shrouded in an atmosphere of eternal celebration. It works around the clock. Excitement, fun communication, endless bargaining - cheer up all market participants, arousing the desire of buyers and just curious tourists to come here again and again.