Cuisine

Mercat de Santa Caterina 

The market culture is a very important aspect in Barcelona's society. There is said to be a market in every neighborhood in Barcelona. Most people who come to Barcelona are told to go to La Boqueria to get an experience of this market culture. I wanted to visit a market that maybe is not totally over run with tourists. I chose to go to the Mercat de Santa Caterina. This is still a somewhat touristy market but nowhere near La Boqueria. The first thing that stands out about Santa Caterina is the structure of the building. The roof is a very modern and colorful design. The convent of Santa Caterina use to occupy the space where the market sits today. Recently, the market went through a complete renovation. The modern renovation was lead by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue. Today, it boast a colorful roof that can be seen from the air. Inside the market there is an abundance of different stands. It is very clean and neat inside.There are stands that are dedicated to only one item. For example there are the egg stands, olives stands, and ready made pasta stands. Many of the meat stands have the cutting utensils out and ready to cut the serving for the customer. There is also a long line of different seafood items sitting out. This market does not just contain food stands. Towards the back there is a supermarket. In front sits restaurant that is said to be very good. Also, there is a store that only sells olive oil. The market seems to try to be appealing for people who what fresh ingredients as well as common household good. I enjoyed this market more than La Boqueria because it did not feel as crazy and crowded. I was able to easily walk around and look everything it had to offer. It was a totally different feeling than the Mercat Del Encants. I feel all the markets in Barcelona have a unique and special aspect to each one.