| The sprawling Central de Abastos
Market is located about 20 blocks southwest of the Zócalo
and across the street from the second
class bus station.
Be forewarned. This market overwhelms the senses. It was created
in 1974 to lessen traffic around the 20
de Noviembre and Benito
Juárez markets. This traditional Oaxacan
market is as inspiring as it is frantic. Word to the wise,
budget time for a quality visit.
If you do not like crowds, this is simply not the place to
go. The market is open every day, but is the most active on
Saturdays.
SPECIALTIES
Pottery from nearby villages, wooden furniture and handicrafts.
TAXIS
For travel to towns north and south of town, there are two
taxi stands near the Abastos Market. The taxis offer inexpensive
collective service.
Heading south? The taxis on Diagonal Mercadores (at the corner
of the Periferico Sur) go to Ocotlán, Zimatlan, Xoxo,
Zaachila and Ejutla.
Heading north? The taxis on Trujano (at the corner of the Periferico
Sur) go Atzoma, San Pablo Huitzo, Telix, San Agustín
Etla and other Etla towns.
OAXACA MARKET PROJECT
Abastos Market is documented in the Oaxaca
Market Project. We ask visitors to print photos (seen
here archived on Flickr) and give them to the venders. This
puts a new spin on the traditional 'take only photographs' mantra
by giving the photos back and raising awareness and increasing
purchases of traditional crafts and local food.
What might be a rushed visit becomes a search for familiar
faces and seasonal products. This guide encourages you to learn
about the markets before a visit. Enjoy!
QUOTABLE
La Central es un micro-cosmos, el objetivo es analizar este
fenómeno de intercambio y consumo desde diferentes puntos
de vista.
- Gustavo Fricke
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