La Boqueria market, located in the heart of Barcelona, is a global tourist attraction, yet it maintains a base of local and Catalan clientele who resist the changes. These shoppers, most of whom are over 60, share a strong emotional connection with the emblematic marketplace, often dating back to their childhood.
“"Almost everything is intended for foreigners. If I could, I would come more often, but between parking being impossible and many stalls closing, it is no longer what it used to be."
Opinions among stallholders are divided. Rosen Bertran, from Cansaladeria Bertran Mascarell (founded in 1955), claims that tourism has "ruined" her business because visitors barely spend money on local products. Conversely, the Morilla Fruites stall, open since 1960, has embraced tourism as an opportunity, with sales sometimes exceeding those of a typical Saturday.
“"When the ten or twelve lifelong stalls close, La Boqueria will die."
Concerned about the loss of the market's essence, the Barcelona City Council and the merchants' association agreed on a regulation set to take effect in 2026. This rule will mandate that at least 50% of the market's offerings must correspond to traditional and fresh foods, aiming to preserve its original character as a local food hub.
