If it were in London it would be called Camdem Market or Portobello Road Market, and if its location were in New York we would refer to it as one of its mythical flea markets. But since it is in Madrid we call it Mercado de las Ranas and this Saturday April 26 we will have the opportunity to attend a new edition of it from 12h to 20h.
The Association of traders of the Barrio de las Letras organizes this original street market that shares format with those mentioned above. It is held several times throughout the year (usually on the first and third Saturday of each month) and is characterized -and therefore, differs from others- because the participating establishments open their doors continuously to present their items to visitors.
The street market will occupy from Huertas Street, on the corner of León Street, to Huertas Street, on the corner of Costanilla de las Trinitarias. Normally it also has another section at the top of Huertas street, but some paving works prevent it from occupying that area on this occasion.
What objects will you find in the Mercado de las Ranas?
This is a handicraft market with the participation of merchants from the neighborhood and others from outside it. Among the stalls you can find everything from costume jewelry to illustration, clothing, decoration, natural cosmetics and gastronomy. In the words of its organizers: “It livens up the neighborhood of Las Letras and attracts many people to our streets”.
Why is it called Mercado de las Ranas?
The explanation is very simple and has to do with the city’s street map: the current Lope de Vega street, located in the neighborhood, was formerly called Cantarranas street, and that is why this flea market owes its name to it.
Another flea market taking place this weekend: Alfaranjuez.
This weekend in the outskirts of the capital will take place another flea market as Alfaranjuez: in addition to pottery and ceramics stalls there will be workshops, musical performances and a poetry open mic.