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If you're planning to visit Malaga's beautiful Atarazanas Market, there are some new rules to be aware of. The Ayuntamiento de Malaga will soon install information signs around the historic market reminding visitors how to behave without disrupting the daily business of the stallholders.

 

The measure comes at the express request of the merchants themselves, who have told the Commerce Department about the need to better organise pedestrian flow through the corridors. Over the years, the market has become one of the most photographed and visited spaces in the capital, attracting millions of visitors each year.

 

"This is still a market," the Ayuntamiento wants to make clear. The signs will remind visitors that Atarazanas is a workplace where dozens of merchants carry out their business every day, and where thousands of Malaga residents come shopping.

 

The new panels will include clear, direct messages in Spanish and English aimed at individual tourists and organised groups. Basic reminders include keeping aisles and exits clear, respecting vendors and buyers, not touching products on display, and avoiding interfering with sales activity.

 

Visitors will also be asked not to take photographs or recordings that may affect commercial activity without prior authorization.

 

Historic markets across Europe have been adopting similar measures for years. Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, and Florence have all had to reconcile their tourist appeal with their original function of supplying and serving the local market.

 

The Atarazanas Market is truly special. Located in the heart of Malaga, it stands on the site of 14th-century Nasrid shipyards from when Málaga belonged to Al-Andalus. The current building, designed by architect Joaquín Rucoba in Neo-Moorish style with glass and iron, was officially opened in 1879 and is one of the best examples of 19th-century architecture in Spain.

 

Inside, you'll find dozens of stalls selling the freshest fish, seafood, organic fruits and vegetables, plus traditional products like oils, sweets, cheeses, local cured meats and preserves. There are also tapas stands and a terrace for a relaxed meal.

 

The goal is simple: ensure that those drawn by the beautiful shop windows, colourful stalls and local cuisine can enjoy the experience without turning the market into a bottleneck for vendors and shoppers.

 

 

Images: Ayuntamiento de Málaga and visitamalaga