The Mercat de Sant Antoni is one of Barcelona’s most iconic markets and the only one open 7 days a week. It includes three areas: the food market, the Encants (various goods, textiles, fashion) and the Sunday market dedicated to books and collectibles. Originally, it was an open-air market located near the Sant Antoni Gate, at the southern exit of the walled city. With the city’s expansion and the demolition of the walls, Ildefons Cerdà proposed its construction to improve Barcelona’s food supply. The project was assigned to architect Antoni Rovira i Trias, and the building was inaugurated in 1882 by mayor Rius i Taulet. In the early 20th century, textile and non-food merchants settled around the market, giving rise to the Encants de Sant Antoni. Later, on Sundays, booksellers and collectors joined in, creating the famous Mercat Dominical (books, postcards, stamps, magazines, games, etc.). In 2007, the market closed for renovation after the discovery of significant archaeological remains: the Roman Via Augusta, a necropolis, and the Sant Antoni bastion. Today, Sant Antoni is a unique place where tradition, commerce and history come together, making it one of Barcelona’s most dynamic hubs.
Activity added by the Oxploria team
