Mercat de Santa Caterina, Barcelona

Mercat de Santa Caterina is a public market whose older façades conceal a striking modern roof. The original building dates from 1848, and EMBT—Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue—completely transformed it before its reopening on the tenth of May 2005. Look at the market’s principal façade: rounded arches carry a cornice and balustrade, while the entrance is framed by pilasters and a pediment.

The roof is the unmistakable feature: its surface rises and dips in broad waves, supported by timber and iron. Across the exterior, a ceramic mosaic covering 4,200 m² uses the colours associated with fruit and vegetables. The market takes its name from the former Santa Caterina convent, demolished in 1837.

At the rear, part of that convent’s remains is preserved for visitors to see. This building belongs to Catalonia’s cultural heritage.