Mercado de Artesanias

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela Travel Guide

La Ciudadela is a must-see spot for anyone who loves folk art and handicrafts. Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, this sprawling market is packed with traditional Mexican goods, making it the perfect place to find souvenirs and unique gifts.

History

La Ciudadela has been a bustling center for artisans and craftspeople for years, showcasing Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. The market is famous for its vibrant stalls filled with handicrafts from various regions, including Oaxaca and the Otomi communities. It’s a significant part of Mexico City’s cultural identity and a key stop for tourists.

How to Get There

La Ciudadela is conveniently located in the Colonia Centro area of Mexico City. It’s about a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Alameda, so it’s easy to get there on foot or by public transportation. Just hop on the metro to the Balderas station and walk north on Balderas Street to reach the market.

Attractions

Alebrijes: These are brightly painted wooden fantastical creatures from Oaxaca, known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Otomi Textiles: Look for colorful textiles featuring hand-embroidered pillow covers and tablecloths with animals, flowers, and plants.

Clay Sculptures: You’ll find pre-Columbian-style clay sculptures that are even more impressive than those in many museums.

Fonda Carmelita: This cantina inside the market offers traditional Mexican food and a variety of drinks.

Street Vendors: Outside the market, small vendors sell fresh produce, including veggie tacos and homemade blue corn tortillas.

Ticket Information

There’s no entrance fee to visit Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela. Prices for the handicrafts are usually set, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for a discount if you’re buying multiple items from one vendor.

Tips for Visiting

Explore the Entire Market: La Ciudadela is huge, so plan to spend at least half a day exploring all the stalls.

Don’t Miss the Smaller Section: The smaller section off to the left is often overlooked but has unique and lesser-known handicrafts.

Negotiate Prices: While prices are set, vendors might be willing to negotiate if you’re buying multiple items.

Take a Break at Fonda Carmelita: The cantina is a great place to rest and enjoy some traditional Mexican food and drinks.

Be Prepared for Crowds: La Ciudadela can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors, so consider visiting as part of a guided tour.

Respect Local Customs: Smoking indoors has been banned in Mexico City since 2008, so be mindful of this when enjoying a meal or drink at Fonda Carmelita.

By following these tips and exploring the various attractions, visitors can truly experience the rich cultural heritage of Mexico through Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela.