Oldest flea market in Barcelona continues to attract over 50,000 monthly visitors 

After seven centuries since its first opening day, Barcelona's Mercat dels Encants continues to attract more than 50,000 people every month to the flea market.  

Mercat dels Encants first opened in 1300 near the gates of Barcelona's wall, where most used items were sold regularly.  

The initial location of the market was characterized by items placed on the floor, waiting to be sold. Through the centuries, many aspects have remained true to their origins, like the outdoor setting and the selling of used goods. Now merchants carry out their activity in a more contemporary setting that also means more stands present, some of which even sell electronic devices.  

Sergio is one of the stall owners at Mercat dels Encants who has seen the market change over time, not only because of its location, but also growing in scale and scope.  

"I’ve been here since 1981, everything started because I used to come to visit the market," Sergio told Catalan News. "Currently I sell antiques items for the house, but for a while, I used to sell clothes in the previous location, and then we got relocated." 

The market moved to its current location near Plaça de les Glòries in 2013, and it now counts 301 stores and nine restaurants, spread over three different levels.  

Previously, it was located in Plaça Nova in Drassanes, as well as on Rambla de les Flors, around the Mercat de Sant Antoni, and now finally in its current location, characterized by the striking modern design of the building that houses it, designed by Barcelona-based architects b720 Fermín Vázquez. 

The aim of the design is to protect merchants and buyers from various weather conditions while maintaining the sense of a classic outdoor flea market.  

Customers will mostly find clothes and fabrics on the first and second floors, while the lower level has a mix of different options like electronics, antique items and furniture.  

Above, the third floor has antique items and decorations for the house for sale, as well as all the restaurants offering Mediterranean food, crêpes, and coffee to enjoy while browsing. 

The flea market also runs auctions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 8 am and 9 am for visitors and business owners.  

Andrés, owner of Casa de Andrés, said he buys things from sellers and from the auctions.  

"I’ve been working in this market for a while and auctions are one of the unique things in the market," Andres said. "Despite being a little different from the past, this activity has given a lot of historical moments to the market." 

Mercat dels Encants is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm.