Central Market Hall

The Great Market Hall, also known as the Central Market Hall, is the largest and oldest of the five indoor markets established in Budapest.

At the end of the nineteenth century, indoor markets were founded in Hungary’s capital to guarantee the quality of the foodstuff and to improve their preservation as the citizens of Budapest were suffering from foodborne illnesses.

History

The Central Market Hall was commissioned by the mayor of the city. The Hungarian architect Samu Pecz was charged of designing the large market and the structure was completed in 1897. Since it was first built, the market was deeply criticized by the inhabitants of Budapest. They were outraged because the general prices had increased since the inauguration of the indoor market. The prices were raised little by little, reaching their maximum during World War I.

During World War II the market was completely destroyed and during the following years, it was slowly but surely abandoned.

In 1991, the Market went bankrupt and closed for a couple of years. Three years later, the building was restored and nowadays it is one of the most visited attractions in Budapest.

When to visit the Market?

The market is open every day except Sunday, although the best day to go to the market is on Saturday when it is packed with people buying all types of food and souvenirs.

If you get hungry during your visit to the Great Market Hall, there are food stands on the top floor that are very cheap and where you will share tables with locals and other tourists.