CENTRAL MARKET HALL
Nagycsarnok 


Budapest’s Great Market Hall, is the city's largest indoor market. Both local shoppers and tourists are attracted by the beautiful historic structure.

Building the Market
Just prior to the turn of the 20th century, when the cities of Buda, Pest, and Obuda merged to form one, city leaders recognized a need for more and better market places for the burgeoning city. The decision was made to build covered markets similar to those in larger European cities, such as Paris.

The largest was dubbed The Great Market Hall and would be situated on the Pest end of the Liberty Bridge. A competition was held to determine the architect for this grand market. Samu Petz was chosen and construction commenced in 1894.

Sometimes referred to as “a symphony in iron”, this ornate market had a canal that ran through the center, allowing goods to be delivered to the market’s traders via barge. According to historic records, the early market was divided down the center by a thruway for wagons. Wholesalers were situated on the west and retailers on the east. There were also designated areas for meat traders, fish stalls, poultry stalls, and vegetable, fruit, cheese, and butter stands.

If you visit The Great Market Hall, you’ll find three stories of stalls selling a variety of wares. On the busy ground level, there are lots of fruit and vegetable vendors. In the basement, there’s a supermarket, a number of fishmongers, and vendors selling game meat. On the upper floor, beautiful Hungarian arts and crafts are the most common fare but you’ll find some fast food stands there as well. 

source: www.aviewoncities.com

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