Mercado Central de Atarazanas

The Mercado Central de Atarazanas is Málaga's main covered food market, located on Calle Atarazanas in the Centro Histórico of Málaga, in Spain's Andalusia region. The building incorporates the original horseshoe-shaped Nasrid gateway of the 14th-century shipyard (atarazanas) that once stood here, and a stained-glass window at the rear depicts scenes from the city's history. The present market hall, dating from 1879, is an iron-framed structure with a high interior and a distinctive white Moorish-style entrance arch. Inside, dozens of stalls sell fresh fish and seafood laid out on ice, local fruit and vegetables, cured hams, cheeses, olives, spices, nuts and dried fruit. Several tapas bars along the edges let visitors eat standing at the counter, with typical dishes including fried anchovies, grilled prawns, fresh oysters and local wine such as Málaga sweet wine. A visit takes 45 to 60 minutes, or longer when stopping to eat. The best photograph angle is from the entrance looking at the stained-glass window, and the stacks of produce make colourful subjects. The market is busiest from late morning to early afternoon on Saturdays, when locals shop alongside tourists, and the quietest time is on weekday mornings when stalls are being stocked. Opening is Monday to Saturday from about 08:00 to 15:00, with the market closed on Sundays, and some stalls close earlier. Entry is free and tapas typically cost €3 to €10. Visitors should carry small change and a bag for purchases, and should be aware that the best seafood sells out by the end of the morning.