The Mercado de Atarazanas is an impressive sight, a covered fresh produce market housed in an old Arabic building with a history that goes back to the 14th century. What was once a shipbuilding yard when the Moors ruled is now a market selling fresh and local products. Embark on a food shopping expedition and stay for tapas in one of the bars.
The building that houses the market has a rich history. After the reconquest of Spain from the Moors, it served as a military hospital, barracks and a convent, becoming a market in the late 19th century. Most of the building, including the iron framework, hails from this time.
Upon entering the market, you will notice a rainbow of colors with stalls piled with fresh, locally grown fruit, vegetables, fish, herbs, spices and more. It is also busy and noisy. In addition to welcoming members of the public, many restaurants source their food from here. See fish counters crammed with seafood, stalls selling fresh cuts of meat and containers filled with olives from the region.
Pause to spend a few minutes appreciating the beauty of the architecture. The marble entrance archway is the only part of the original structure that survives to the present day. Gaze at the large and colorful stained-glass window, added in the 1970s, above the back entrance. The window depicts parts of Malaga’s history including the time when this site was a shipyard.
When the mood strikes you, stop at the market’s bars and cafés for drinks and tapas. Try local favorites such as fried anchovies and migas, a simple Spanish dish that includes fried breadcrumbs, peppers and onions among other ingredients.
Mercado de Atarazanas is located in the historic center of Malaga and is open every day except Sundays. Street parking is scarce in the city, but there are garages in several locations where you can park for a fee. The nearest parking is the lot under the Calle de Camas, next to the market.
