Mercado Grao is the oldest existing market in Valencia. Located near the port on the Plaza del Mercado Nuevo (New Market) it was officially open in 1916 (just for reference – The famous Central Market was open in 1928).
After serving local residents for over century, the market is now significantly deteriorated and mostly abandoned by everybody (merchants and customers). Out of initial 52 stalls, now only 3 including fish shop, delicatessen and grocery still operate accompanied by an old-fashioned café-bar. Despite this sad reality, the large space between rows of stalls is amazingly well maintained and clean, with plants dotting the space and making impression that the life is coming back tomorrow. In fact, the premises are often used during the weekends for gatherings and local events …
Fortunately, after years of negligence new life is apparently coming to this desolate structure. The new project by the architect José María Tomás will preserve the architectural concept of this old market build more than hundred years ago by truly visionary designers. However, the number of permanent stalls will be reduced to 24 at the benefit of wider partially green area dedicated to cultural activities, neighborhood meetings, concerts etc. It will also house a theater for children. Especially, to boost all kinds of social activities the market will also include bars and cafeterias and will be also open afternoons and evenings. It is expected that the fully “refurbished” Mercado Grau offering some 2,800 square meters of mostly covered space will be completed in 2019.
While usually the big commercial port is not the focal point for tourists (with exception of the cruise pier), it may be worth to mention Grau’s architectural and historical jewel located near the Mercado. It is a very unique landmark known by its Arabic name: Las Atarazanas (shipyards). This now meticulously renovated structure with five arches supporting wooden roof was built by Moors in the late 14th century. Now it is an exhibition hall…
Artistic vision of the new project. Source
