Plaza del Fontan

About

Mercado de El Fontán is Oviedo’s heart‑beat, a historic market that has been bustling since the 17th century. Nestled in the medieval quarter, its arcaded square hosts vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, handmade crafts, and a rotating selection of local flowers and plants. The market’s architecture—characterised by its elegant stone façade and the iconic Arc of the Shoes—provides a picturesque backdrop that blends the city’s rich heritage with everyday commerce. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market stalls, sampling Asturian specialties such as fabes a la Asturiana and Bembel cheese, while the surrounding cafés and terraces offer a taste of the city’s culinary scene. The market’s free‑entry policy ensures that families, food lovers, and history enthusiasts can explore at their own pace, taking in the lively sounds of haggling and the aroma of fresh bread. The market operates daily, with a special morning market on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Outside the stall days, the plaza remains a public gathering space for events, festivals and cultural celebrations, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists to experience authentic Oviedo life.