The Mercat de Santa Caterina is a historic market in the Sant Pere neighbourhood, known for its iconic undulating roof of multicoloured ceramic tiles. Beneath this modern canopy, a wooden structure houses traditional stalls selling fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. Daily trade rubs shoulders with contemporary architecture and timeless bars where time is savoured. The contrast between old and new gives the market a character entirely its own – one where every visit paints a changing canvas of voices, flavours and memory.
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The roof, visible from above, forms a vast still life made up of more than 300,000 coloured ceramic pieces. It was designed by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue, who drew inspiration from the produce sold there when they carried out a full renovation of the building at the beginning of this century.
Opened in 1848, it was Barcelona’s first covered market and played a vital role in feeding the city, particularly during the hardships of the post-war years.
The market was built on the site of the former Convent of Santa Caterina, demolished in 1835, and some of its archaeological remains have been preserved and can be visited inside.
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Cuines de Santa Caterina
A spacious and bright market restaurant where you can enjoy tapas, order à la carte or choose from the daily specials.
