In times past it was a market, today it is home to flower stalls and the finest restaurants. But it…read morehas always been one of the most beautiful buildings in Valencia. I enjoyed strolling around the entire market and watching people gather for a drink, a meal or just a snack. Spanish people like to take their time while they get together, it's just a nice social thing to do.
The Colón Market was designed by the architect Francisco Mora Berenguer in the early 20th century, making it one of the most iconic examples of Valencian art nouveau, which has certain features that recall Gaudí's buildings in Barcelona. The structure has been listed as a National Monument.
The large building is divided into three sections, enclosed at either end by two brick and stone entrances in the style of triumphal arches. The colorful façade is highly decorative, with the ceramic details typical of the region. An artistic wrought iron fence surrounds the premises. All these features have been painstaking restored. Today, the height of its ceiling and numerous entrances make the market a bright, open space.
Built to cater to the upper class of the period, it is in fact still located in one of the areas with the highest purchasing power in the city, the Ensanche. Every day it receives numerous visitors, who come to pass the time at its outdoor cafés. The market hours are from 8.00 a.m. to 1.30 in the morning, but each establishment can set its own opening times