Covered Market

The covered market of Agen

The Agen audio-guided tour stops you before the covered market, on Place Jean-Baptiste-Durand, in the heart of this gourmet city of the South-West. For centuries, the people of Agen did their shopping there, perpetuating a market tradition still very much alive.

From the Grand Marché to the present building

The people of Agen long did their shopping in the open air on this square. The first covered market, a wooden hall, came into being in 1832. It was replaced in 1884 by the magnificent "Grand Marché" of the architect Lhéritier, inspired by the Baltard halls of Paris, with its one hundred and eighty stalls and its campanile of twenty-six metres. This metal jewel was unfortunately demolished in 1970 in favour of a concrete complex. The present market perpetuates the gourmet vocation of the place.

What there is to see

Under its halls, the covered market gathers the producers and the flavours of the South-West: fruits and vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie and, of course, the famous Agen prune. It is a lively and colourful place, ideal for discovering the local gastronomy and the convivial atmosphere of the city. A gourmet stop appreciated by locals as by visitors.

Practical information

The covered market is on Place Jean-Baptiste-Durand, in the heart of Agen. It is generally open several mornings a week, the days and hours possibly varying according to the season; it is advisable to come in the morning to enjoy the bustle. Access is on the level.

What was the "Grand Marché" of Agen?

A metal hall of 1884, by the architect Lhéritier and inspired by the Baltard halls of Paris; it was demolished in 1970.

What can you find at the covered market?

The producers and flavours of the South-West: fruits and vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie and the famous Agen prune.