Central Market Hall

You’re now standing face to face with another gem in Salamanca. You better get used to it — stunning discoveries are around every corner here. Welcome to the Mercado Central de Abastos, the city’s oldest food market, dating back to the 12th century. Originally set up near Salamanca’s old cathedral, the market was at the heart of what used to be the city’s busiest commercial area. Over time, the market shifted location and eventually settled here. For centuries, traders sold their goods in the open air — until the 19th century, when the city stepped in with a plan to offer a more modern, hygienic shopping space for its people. A design competition was held, and among all the entries, one name stood out: Joaquín de Vargas Aguirre — also the architect behind the iconic Casa Lis. Let’s be honest, he nailed it. The result is a gorgeous Modernist building, adorned with elegant wrought ironwork, now listed and protected for its architectural value. Inside, the market offers the best of local gastronomy — traditional regional products, alongside top-quality meats, fish, fresh produce and delicacies of all kinds. Whether or not you came with a shopping list, it’s hard to resist picking up something tasty while you’re here.