The Abastos Market of Santiago de Compostela
Table of Contents
The Abastos Market: A Gastronomic and Cultural Icon of Santiago de Compostela
Today we will talk about the Abastos Market, one of the many iconic places in Santiago de Compostela. The Abastos Market of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most emblematic and visited places in the city, both by locals and tourists. Located in the heart of the historic center, this market combines tradition, history, and the gastronomic essence of Galicia.
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History and Design of the Market
It was inaugurated in 1873 and is located on the site of what was once a medieval market. Its current design dates back to the early 20th century, with renovations in the 1940s that gave it its distinctive appearance: a series of stone halls that evoke an aesthetic reminiscent of Galician Romanesque churches. The market consists of eight parallel halls, creating a functional and appealing space that reflects the historical significance of trade in the city.
Gastronomic Offer of the Market
The market reflects the gastronomic richness of Galicia. Here, we can purchase fresh Galician products, such as:
- Fish and seafood from the Galician rías, including gooseneck barnacles, octopus, mussels, scallops, and more.
- Quality meats such as pork, Galician beef, and local sausages.
- Agricultural products, fresh fruits, vegetables, and produce grown in the region.
- Cheeses and dairy products, featuring the famous Tetilla cheese and other Galician cheeses.
- Bread and traditional pastries, Galician empanadas, bicas, and typical sweets.
- Wines and liquors from the Galician Denominations of Origin (Rías Baixas, Ribeiro, Monterrei, etc.) and aguardientes.
Many visitors choose to buy fresh products and consume them directly at the market, thanks to the bars and restaurants that prepare them on the spot.
Read also: THE DELICIOUS GALICIAN FOOD
Abastos 2.0: A Unique Experience
Among the gastronomic offerings, one place stands out: Abastos 2.0, a culinary project located inside the Abastos Market of Santiago de Compostela. It is much more than a conventional restaurant; it combines culinary creativity with the fresh, seasonal products offered by the market itself.
Abastos 2.0 was founded in 2009 by chefs Iago Pazos and Marcos Cerqueiro, with the aim of reinterpreting traditional Galician cuisine with a contemporary approach. The foundation of their cooking is the fresh, local ingredients they purchase daily at the Abastos Market. This direct connection ensures quality and freshness.
Areas of the Abastos 2.0 Restaurant
Abastos 2.0 is divided into two main areas:
- La Nave 5: A small space within the market, with just a few seats. Here, a more casual experience is offered, with tapas and portions made from the day’s market offerings.
- A Loxe: A larger and more refined dining area, located right next to the market. The experience here is more structured, offering tasting menus and a more elaborate menu.
The menu changes daily based on the season and the products available at the market, making each visit unique. While the offerings vary, they typically feature reinterpretations of Galician classics, such as empanadas, seafood, fish from the rías, and meats.
The experience usually includes a careful selection of Galician and national wines that perfectly complement each dish. Due to the limited space, it is essential to book in advance, especially in Nave 5, which has very few seats
The Abastos Market is the second most visited place in Santiago de Compostela after the Cathedral of Santiago, highlighting its cultural and social significance. In addition to shopping, the market hosts cultural activities, exhibitions, and gastronomic events. One way to visit it is by joining various city tours, including the Free Tour, which passes by the Abastos Market.
What is a Free Tour?
A Free Tour is a type of guided tour where participants do not pay a fixed price upfront. Instead, at the end of the tour, they decide how much money to give the guide as a tip, depending on their satisfaction with the experience. There is no set cost. Each participant pays what they feel is fair based on the quality of the tour and their financial situation.
They generally last between 1.5 and 3 hours, and include points of historical, cultural, and anecdotal interest. They may also include recommendations on gastronomy, local activities, and less touristy places. Although there is no fixed fee, participants are expected to tip the guide at the end of the tour. The suggested amount typically varies depending on the destination and the duration, but it usually ranges from 5 to 20 euros per person.
Opening Hours and Location of the Abastos Market
It is generally open from Tuesday to Saturday, in the morning (until 14:00 or 15:00). On Mondays, it is usually closed as many vendors rest after the weekend.
It is located on Rúa das Ameas, in the heart of the historic center of Santiago. Its location makes it easily accessible from any tourist point in the city. It is 10 minutes from Plaza del Obradoiro and Santiago Cathedral, in the bordering area of the Monumental Zone of Santiago de Compostela. Additionally, it is just 5 minutes from Galicia Travels. Our offices are located at Rúa de Casas Reais, number 31.
The Abastos Market is more than just a place to buy food; it is a cultural and gastronomic meeting point that connects Galician tradition with the present, making each visit unique and memorable.