Iron Market
Ouest
The Iron Market, locally known as Marché en Fer, is a prominent public market located in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Originally built in Paris as a metal structure intended for a railway station in Cairo, it was purchased by Haitian President Florvil Hyppolite in 1891 and transported to Haiti. The market features two large iron-framed halls, each spanning approximately 2,000 square meters, connected by a gate adorned with four domed towers and a clock on its façade. The entire structure is painted red with green accents, making it visually distinctive. Throughout its history, the market has endured multiple destructive fires, including one in 2008 and another in 2018, as well as devastation from the 2010 Haiti earthquake which completely destroyed it. Recognized as a historical heritage site by the Institut de Sauvegarde du Patrimoine National, the market was meticulously restored after the earthquake with the help of architect John McAslan and financial backing from Denis O'Brien. The restoration reused bricks from earthquake-damaged buildings and original-style roof tiles manufactured by the same French company. The market reopened in 2011 in a ceremony led by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Today, the Iron Market remains a symbol of Haitian cultural resilience and a vibrant center for commerce and community life.
Plan your trip to Haiti with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to check the market's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary. Purchasing tickets is not required as it is a public market. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when vendors are active. Be prepared for crowds and consider visiting early to avoid peak times. No specific discounts apply, but bargaining is common in local markets. Staying aware of your belongings is recommended due to busy conditions.
Interesting facts
- •The market's iron structure was initially intended for a railway station in Cairo before being repurposed for Haiti.
- •The market consists of two large iron-framed halls connected by a gate with four domed towers and a clock.
- •It was destroyed in the 2010 Haiti earthquake and rebuilt with bricks recovered from damaged buildings.
- •The restoration was funded by Irish businessman Denis O'Brien and designed by architect John McAslan.
- •Former U.S. President Bill Clinton officially reopened the market in 2011.
- •One of the two halls was destroyed by fire again in February 2018, reportedly starting in a rubbish container.
History
The Iron Market was originally constructed in Paris for a railway station project in Cairo, which was later canceled.
In 1891, Haitian President Florvil Hyppolite purchased the metal structure and had it shipped to Haiti, where it was assembled as a public market.
Over the years, the market has suffered several fires, notably in 2008 and 2018, and was completely destroyed by the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
It was designated as a historical heritage site and was rebuilt using original materials and modern designs, reopening in 2011.
Place Guide
Main Iron-Framed Halls1891
Two large halls, each about 2,000 square meters, featuring distinctive red-painted iron structures with green accents, serving as the market's main commercial spaces.
Connecting Gate with Domed Towers and Clock1891
A prominent architectural feature connecting the two halls, featuring four domed towers and a clock on its façade, painted in the market’s signature colors.
