OAXACA, MEXICO

Central de Abasto(s) Market
by Ron Mader

ABASTO(S) WIKI

El que busca encuentra. (One finds what one looks for.)
- Dichos

FLICKR ALBUM: Oaxaca 2012

The sprawling Central de Abastos Market (also called 'Central de Abasto' by some) 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 and is as inspiring as it is chaotic. Word to the wise, budget time for a quality visit and be on the lookout for pickpockets!

The Abasto(s) market was created in 1974 to lessen traffic around the 20 de Noviembre and Benito Juárez markets. There is talk of moving the market, but so far the plans are still in the indefinite future.

If you do not like crowds, this is simply not the place to go. The market is open every day and active days are Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Word to the wise, budget time for a quality visit and be on the lookout for pickpockets!

OAXACA MARKET PROJECT

The Abasto(s) Market is documented in the Oaxaca Market Project. We ask visitors to print photos (seen here archived on Flickr) and give them to the vendors. 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!