Sant Antoni Market

The Mercat de Sant Antoni in Barcelona is one of the most emblematic and historic markets in the city. Located in the Sant Antoni district, this market is a significant example of modernist architecture and reflects the city’s rich commercial history. Designed by Antoni Rovira i Trias and completed in 1882, the Mercat de Sant Antoni has recently been restored, reopening in 2018 after a long renovation period that began in 2009. The construction of the Mercat de Sant Antoni dates back to the urban expansion of Barcelona, following the demolition of the medieval walls. Rovira i Trias, the responsible architect, designed a building in the shape of a Greek cross, with four main arms intersecting in a large twenty-eight-meter high octagonal dome, supported by eight iron columns. This structure not only represents a remarkable example of 19th-century engineering and design, but also an important testimony to Barcelona’s transition from a walled city to a modern metropolis. The market originally included three different sections: the food market, the Encants, and the Dominical. The Encants, located along the perimeter, were known for selling textiles and other non-food items, while the Dominical, a Sunday fair, was famous for selling books, magazines, postcards, and collectibles. This division allowed the Mercat de Sant Antoni to serve a wide range of customers, from local residents to collectors and tourists. During the restoration, important archaeological remains were discovered, including parts of the city’s medieval walls. These findings were integrated into the new project, creating an interesting blend of ancient and modern. The restoration included the renovation of historical elements, such as the central dome and roof, and the introduction of new sustainable technologies, including geothermal systems for energy efficiency. From an artistic point of view, the Mercat de Sant Antoni is a splendid example of modernist architecture, with its iron structure and intricate decorations. The iron columns not only support the structure but also act as conduits for rainwater, demonstrating the attention to functional and aesthetic details of the time. The recent renovation has preserved these elements, making the market not only a place of commerce but also a site of architectural and cultural interest. An interesting anecdote concerns the reopening of the market in 2018, when the restoration project revealed the existence of an ancient bastion of the city walls. This discovery added a new historical dimension to the market, transforming it into a place where past and present meet. The renovation also saw the creation of public spaces and open squares, making the market even more integrated into the urban fabric.