Mercado Benito Juárez Guide
A Sensory Feast: Experience the Authentic Flavors and Crafts of Mercado Benito Juárez Guide
Dive into the heart of Oaxacan culture at Mercado Benito Juárez, a bustling marketplace overflowing with sights, sounds, and smells. This vibrant market is a sensory feast, offering everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to handcrafted textiles and traditional pottery. It's the perfect place to experience the authentic flavors and crafts of Oaxaca, and to interact with the friendly locals who bring this market to life. Mercado Benito Juárez has been a central part of Oaxacan life for over a century. Named after Benito Juárez, a revered Oaxacan president, the market has evolved over time to become a hub for commerce and community. While the current structure dates back to the late 19th century, the tradition of a central marketplace in Oaxaca stretches back much further, reflecting the region's long history of trade and cultural exchange. At Mercado Benito Juárez, you can sample traditional Oaxacan cuisine, such as tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat), mole (a rich, complex sauce made with chili peppers and chocolate), and chapulines (grasshoppers, a local delicacy). You can also find a wide variety of handcrafted goods, including textiles, pottery, jewelry, and leather products. Don't be afraid to haggle for the best price, and be sure to try some of the local specialties. The market is also a great place to find ingredients for Oaxacan cooking, such as dried chiles, spices, and herbs.
Transportation
Mercado Benito Juárez is located in the city center, a few blocks south of the Zocalo (main square). Many buses stop near the market. Look for buses heading towards the city center. You can also easily reach the market by taxi or by walking from most parts of the city center.
Opening Hours
Generally open daily from early morning (around 7:00 AM) to late evening (around 8:00 PM), but individual stalls may vary.