Mercado del Puerto
Montevideo
Mercado del Puerto, located in Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja neighborhood, is a vibrant gastronomic and cultural venue originally built as a covered market in 1868. Designed by British engineers with iron components from Liverpool, it was inaugurated in the presence of President Lorenzo Batlle y Grau. Initially serving as a wholesale fruits and vegetables market supplying the port and local population, it later transformed into a renowned culinary hotspot focused on traditional Uruguayan cuisine, especially asado grilled over open fire parrillas. The market is also a cultural center featuring live tango performances and displays of Uruguayan traditions. A distinctive four-faced clock imported from Liverpool, installed in 1897, remains a hallmark of the building. Since its designation as a National Historic Monument in 1976 and refurbishment in the 1970s, it has become a major tourist destination surrounded by museums and artisan shops. It is also known as the birthplace of the traditional Uruguayan drink Medio y Medio, a festive blend of sweet sparkling and dry white wines, first created at the Roldós bar in the late 19th century. The market hosts an annual New Year's Eve midday celebration with a unique water and cider fight, drawing locals and visitors alike.
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Consejo: Visit Mercado del Puerto during lunchtime or early evening to experience the best of its traditional asado offerings and vibrant atmosphere. The annual New Year's Eve midday festival is a unique cultural event worth timing your visit for. Purchasing tickets or making reservations for popular restaurants in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. Discounts may be available for groups or off-peak hours. Explore surrounding museums and artisan shops to enrich your experience.
Datos interesantes
- •The iron components of Mercado del Puerto were manufactured in Liverpool, England.
- •The four-faced clock installed in 1897 remains a distinctive architectural feature.
- •Mercado del Puerto is the birthplace of the traditional Uruguayan drink Medio y Medio.
- •The market hosts a unique New Year's Eve midday celebration featuring a large-scale water and cider fight.
- •Originally, the market featured a circular iron fountain at its center, replaced later by the clock.
Historia
Mercado del Puerto was established by Spanish merchant Pedro Sáenz de Zumarán and designed by British engineers, inaugurated on October 10, 1868.
Originally a wholesale fruits and vegetables market serving Montevideo's port, it featured a circular iron fountain later replaced by a four-faced clock in 1897.
Throughout the 20th century, it experienced periods of prosperity and decline before transitioning in the 1970s to a gastronomic and cultural hub.
It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1976, cementing its importance in Uruguay's heritage.
Guía del lugar
Main Dining Area1970s
The central space of Mercado del Puerto where numerous restaurants serve traditional Uruguayan cuisine, especially asado grilled over open fire parrillas. It is the heart of the market's gastronomic experience.
Four-Faced Clock1897
Installed in 1897, this imported clock from Liverpool is a distinctive feature at the center of the building, replacing the original circular iron fountain.
Annual New Year's Eve Midday Festival
A lively street festival held at Mercado del Puerto featuring traditional water and cider fights, attracting locals and international visitors to celebrate the new year in a unique way.