Mercat Central, Valencia

Mercat Central is Valencia’s public market, a landmark of Valencian Art Nouveau opposite the Llotja de la Seda and the Church of Santos Juanes. Its broad iron-and-glass structure brings together domes, timber, ceramics and tiled surfaces, creating an airy setting for daily trade. Construction began in 1914 and reached completion in 1928.

Francesc Guàrdia i Vial and Alexandre Soler i March began the project, with Enrique Viedma Vidal and Ángel Romaní Verdeguer later directing the works. More than 200 stalls offer food ranging from fish and shellfish to fruit, spices, meat and cured products. As you move along the pavement, look toward the great dome crowned by a weather vane: it gives the market a monumental presence, while the roof openings and coloured glazing bring changing light into the trading hall.