So, you’ve walked all the way to Santigo, completing a journey of a lifetime. You’ve visited the Cathedral, you’ve received your Compostela and have a little time on your hands to explore.
Did you know that the Santiago market, the Mercado de Abastos, is the second most visited place in Santiago after the Cathedral? It’s a foodie´s paradise, my friends, especially for the pilgrim who has been on the Camino for some time.
Located in the old town, close to the cathedral, while the current market building was built in 1941, the Mercado de Abastos has been alive and kicking, supplying the good people of Santiago with Galician delights since 1873.
Managed by a co-operate of 70 food producers and other businesses, the market has a colourful mix of stalls. From the baker selling his artisan bread to old Galician ladies from the neighbouring villages selling their homegrown produce, the sheer variety of products available is mind-boggling – which is what makes the Market such a fantastic place to visit.
Here you can pick up local delicacies such as Padron peppers, octopus, salted cod, gooseneck barnacle (crickey!), empanada (savoury pies) in all shapes and sizes, and more, not forgetting the more traditional fruit and vegetables, fish, seafood and meat that you would normally find in a market. And, of course, there’s plenty of cheese and vino on offer!
For a small fee, the market will allow you to cook your chosen products. Perfect for the Camino pilgrim!
Many small restaurants have popped up around the Mercado for those of you who would prefer a delicious lunch or dinner for you.
If you have time to spare in Santiago, don’t miss out on a visit to the Mercado de Abastos. You’ll be in for a real treat!
If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago and need a little helping hand preparing for your journey, why not let me take care of the mundane, leaving you to enjoy the magic? I offer Camino Itinerary Planning on all Camino de Santiago routes.
Want to learn more about the Camino de Santiago? Check out my book, A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino de Santiago. I share everything you need to know before you begin your Camino. Read at A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino De Santiago or click the link below.
(c) Samantha Wilson 2019. All Rights Reserved.
Featured Image Credit – Santiago Tourism
