San Miguel Market is located in the very centre of Madrid. It is a wonderful example of a radical transformation of a building by means of an excellent restoration. Hundreds of people wander daily through this market and taste the delicious food there as well as buying best quality products. Many just walk around and admire the scene and the atmosphere. San Miguel Market attracts a large number of tourists who like to have a tasty appetizer in a traditional market in Madrid. Today we want to repeat the phrase that to restore is to make a place suitable to live in. We may remind you that we have already written about Serrería Belga. Today, we are going to visit San Miguel Market. Would you like to join us?

A UNIQUE BUILDING IN MADRID

San Miguel Market is in the centre of Madrid, next to Plaza Mayor.

Its framework is very original because it is made of iron. It is the only market with this characteristic in Madrid, and therefore it has been declared Property of Cultural Interest. Before 1916, the market was in the open air.

However, that year it became a closed precinct. In 2009, a group of partners decided to renovate the market. They carried out a magnificent restoration. The building had to be propped up from top to bottom in order to strengthen its framework. Salt water from the fish shops had leaked through the drains and had seriously damaged the iron of the columns. After its splendid restoration, the market has become very attractive without losing its traditional flavour and essence.

A MARKET OF XXI CENTURY

San Miguel Market has 33 different stalls.

Its creators sought to capture the concept of a market of XXI century, where above all, food and gastronomy had the leading part. Not only can you buy the best fresh products but you can also taste them in every single stall. You have codfish, oysters, fresh pasta, pickles, wine, champagne… The most demanding guest will not be disappointed.

TO SEDUCE PASSERS-BY

The restoration of the market included enormous windows so that you can see everything from the outside. Passers-by cannot resist the temptation when they see the delicious food that can be tasted or bought there.

Picture 01: Dieter Weinelt

Picture 02: Manuel

Picture 03: Richard Whitaker

Picture 04: Morgan Davis

Picture 05: José Ibañez

Picture 06: MrT HK

Picture 07: Cristopher Brown

Picture 08: Peter