Temuco Market
La AraucanĂa
The Temuco Market, officially known as Mercado Modelo or Mercado Municipal de Temuco, is a central marketplace in Temuco, Chile, occupying a significant urban block. Established initially in 1929 as El Mercado de Abastos, it was designed to organize the sale of essential goods that were previously traded informally on the streets. The market became a focal point for local commerce, featuring numerous stalls including restaurants, craft shops, butcheries, and fishmongers, employing hundreds of workers. Over the decades, it underwent expansions and renovations, including a notable façade remodel inspired by Mapuche culture in the early 2000s. In 2016, a catastrophic fire destroyed most of the market except its façade, severely impacting the local economy and displacing many vendors. Reconstruction efforts began shortly after, with plans for a modern three-level building that respects the original architectural design. The market is an important cultural and tourist site in Temuco, linking local indigenous heritage with contemporary urban life.
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Astuce: Visitors should check the current status of the market reconstruction before planning a visit, as the site has been under redevelopment since the 2016 fire. Exploring the temporary artisan spaces set up nearby offers a glimpse into local crafts. The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Purchasing tickets or entry is generally not required, but supporting local vendors by buying crafts and food is encouraged. Guided tours may be available as the market reopens fully.
Faits intéressants
- •The market covers 6,300 square meters and originally housed 142 local businesses and about 600 workers.
- •It is part of the Ruta Patrimonial Huellas de Pablo Neruda, linking it to the legacy of the Nobel laureate poet who lived in Temuco.
- •The 2016 fire was so intense that only the façade remained standing, causing losses estimated at around fifteen million US dollars and leaving over six hundred people unemployed.
- •The reconstruction project includes a modern three-level building with a basement for storage and two commercial floors, concentrating restaurants on the top floor.
Histoire
The Temuco Market originated from the need to regulate and centralize the sale of essential goods in Temuco, leading to the construction of the Mercado Modelo, whose foundation stone was laid in 1928 and officially opened in 1930.
It replaced an earlier, less organized market that failed to meet the city's needs.
Over the years, the market expanded and modernized, notably between 1987 and 1988, and received a culturally significant façade renovation in the early 2000s reflecting Mapuche heritage.
In 2016, a devastating fire nearly destroyed the market, prompting plans for reconstruction with respect for the original structure.
The rebuilding process has been ongoing, with interruptions, aiming for completion by 2028.
Guide du lieu
Main Market Hall1929
The heart of the Mercado Modelo featuring numerous stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, meat, and seafood, reflecting Temuco's rich cultural and culinary diversity.
Mapuche-inspired Façade2002-2003
The market's façade was remodeled in 2002-2003 to incorporate elements of Mapuche culture, enhancing its cultural significance without altering the original structure.
Temporary Artisan Market2016
Following the 2016 fire, about seventy artisans were relocated to a provisional market with a large tent on General Aldunate street, preserving the local craft tradition during reconstruction.
Reconstruction Site2017-present
The ongoing reconstruction site of the Mercado Modelo is designed by architect Cristián Undurraga, aiming to restore and modernize the market with three levels and improved facilities.