Mercadillo El Rastro

The most famous market in Madrid stretches along the entire length of La Ribera de Curtidores, with its appendices extending into the side alleys. This is the so-called Mercado al aire libre, or Mercadillo.

The market is open on Sundays and public holidays, and today is Dos de Mayo, a holiday commemorating the beginning of the uprising against French occupation on May 2, 1808, also known as Madrid Day. I had previously researched this and planned to explore the Lavapiés neighborhood and visit the market on this day.

There are a lot of rave reviews about the market on various travel portals, claiming that it sells exclusive and rare items, but I didn't see anything outstanding. The selection consists of inexpensive Chinese clothing and similar banal interior items.

There was no rush of customers either, there were many more sellers. Maybe it's busier on Sundays, or maybe I came too late.

As for souvenirs, I saw the same standard kitsch that you can buy anywhere, except that it's slightly cheaper here than on the tourist trails.

In general, I didn't find anything "flea-ridden" here, as various travel portals had promised. There were not even the usual stalls selling old items, books, records, and other cherished objects.

But it's not all bad! The banality of street trade is brightened up by numerous shops selling original goods, such as this Marihuana. I also saw several antique shops, including those selling film and photo equipment, but they were closed - most shops in Spain are closed on holidays, even grocery stores. Perhaps those who visit on a regular Sunday will find more interesting things to see.

One of the few was the Almenara Decoracion workshop, which produces and restores all kinds of wooden furniture.

And of course, what's a market without street musicians? Today, the audience was entertained by an international band performing catchy hits from the early rock and roll era.