Following the completion of preliminary technical and architectural studies, Barcelona's Boqueria Market is set to begin an ambitious renovation to revitalize itself. Operational works, including lighting improvements in the logistics area and the renovation of the central fish island, new public restrooms, and the opening of the ground floor in the office building, will commence after the summer. These actions are accompanied by the approval of a new internal regulation, agreed upon with merchants and the Governing Council of the Municipal Markets Institute, which aims to balance the offer of fresh and processed products.
Between 2027 and 2029, the most significant structural improvements will take place. These include the replacement of the asbestos cement roof, consolidation and rehabilitation of the structure, and adaptation of the facilities. The access and facade of Plaça de la Gardunya will also be reformed, intended to become a second main entrance to the market, particularly for residents of the Raval neighborhood.
The new internal regulation establishes a framework setting a minimum of 50% traditional products and a maximum of 50% processed products, with flexibility for certain specialties. The goal is for the market to continue serving as a food supply center for Barcelona residents, while preserving its unique character and attracting occasional visitors. The comprehensive renovation plans to maintain the 1,493.69 linear meters of commercial offering and all current operators.
The physical renovation includes accessibility improvements, the creation of a family-adapted restroom, and freeing up space to create a continuous passage between the market's interior and Plaça de la Gardunya. Three rows of stalls are planned to be removed to make the market more spacious and to construct the new restrooms. The final phase will include the potential installation of a photovoltaic solar energy generation system on the new roof.
With a total budget of over 12 million euros, the renovation aims to solidify the Boqueria as an international benchmark and the city's oldest market, featuring 188 establishments. The market receives over 22 million visitors annually, serving as a key agent in the economic development of the districts and a symbol of the city.
