February, 2nd.
Each month, the traditional Mercado de la Almendra (this translates directly as the “Almond Market”) is held in Vitoria-Gasteiz’s old town. The market takes its name from Vitoria-Gasteiz’s oval-shaped medieval quarter, which was declared a Monument Site in 1997.
It is held on the first Saturday of each month, and is divided up into a series of rutas, or routes. The Ruta del Comercio, or Shopping Route, extends over Cuchillería street and San Francisco street, the Burullería Plaza, Correría street and the Santo Domingo plaza, and attracts many sellers and craftsmen, who take advantage of the opportunity to offer all types of products for sale, while the Ruta Cultural, or Cultural Route, gives visitors the chance to explore the medieval quarter by going on a guided tour.
In addition, under the slogan, The secrets of the Almond, a market seller invites Vitoria-Gasteiz natives and visitors alike to come and learn all about his job.
We mustn’t forget to mention the Ruta de las Barricas, or Barrel Route, which involves touring around bars to enjoy a pintxo (delicious, Basque-style tapas) or a pote (a small glass of wine), all for the modest price of 1.50 euros.
Two information stands are erected on market days: one is located on San Francisco street and the other can be found at the Burullería plaza, which is also home to the “Children’s Corner”, with its workshops, games and handicrafts for youngsters.
