Metropolitan Market

The Mercato Metropolitano in Milan is a unique project that combines culinary tradition, sustainability, and urban regeneration. Born in 2015 during the Milan Expo, this market transformed a disused railway station into a vibrant center of gastronomic culture. The idea behind the Mercato Metropolitano was to create a space that not only sold food, but also celebrated community and sustainability, highlighting the importance of a local and high-quality food supply chain. The atmosphere of the Market is a tribute to Italian traditions, with a wide range of stalls offering fresh products, artisan cheeses, freshly baked bread, and other gastronomic delights. Every corner of the Market tells a story, from the origin of the ingredients to the passion of the artisans who work with them. This approach attracted over two million visitors in the first four months of opening, demonstrating the potential of a market model that focuses on sustainability and community.Located in the Navigli area, the Mercato Metropolitano is not just a place to shop, but a meeting point for the community. With its numerous initiatives, such as cooking classes, concerts, and lessons on urban farming, the Market promotes active engagement from visitors. Here, families can learn to grow tomatoes, groups of friends can enjoy a casual dinner, and couples can experience new culinary experiences during a romantic date.One of the most distinctive aspects of the Mercato Metropolitano is its commitment to sustainability. For example, every evening, excess food is collected by the Fondazione Banco Alimentare Onlus to be donated to charitable institutions. Additionally, the Market offers workshops on urban agriculture, allowing visitors to learn cultivation techniques that they can then apply in their own green spaces.The Mercato Metropolitano is not just a market, but a true cultural experience. During Expo 2015, the theme “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” inspired the creation of this space which, after the event’s closure, was relocated and renewed to become what we know today. Every element of the Market, from the stalls to the bricks of the structure, was carefully chosen to preserve the historical heritage of the site and promote a sustainable and innovative food ideology.The importance of the Mercato Metropolitano also lies in its ability to break down barriers between producers and consumers. This direct approach not only enriches the shopping experience, but educates visitors about the origin of food and the impact of their food choices. In a city renowned for fashion and design, the Mercato Metropolitano offers a significant counterpoint, emphasizing sustainability and social cohesion through food.The Market also stands out for its variety of culinary offerings. From traditional Italian cuisine to international dishes, every visit is a multisensory journey. Visitors can participate in hands-on cooking classes, olive oil tastings, and meet renowned chefs who share their experiences and knowledge on food innovation and sustainability.The area around the Market, including the Darsena, offers additional attractions, such as walks along the canal and water equipment rentals. This regenerated area has become a landmark for Milanese and tourists looking to explore the city from a different perspective.