Mercato Coperto (Covered Market), Ravenna

The Ravenna Covered Market, located just a short walk from Piazza del Popolo, is a modern and expansive commercial space that offers visitors the chance to savor traditional dishes and purchase high-quality products from the Romagna region.

The origins of the Covered Market can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it served as a trading center with stalls for fishmongers, butchers, and draperies. Casa Matha, a fishermen's corporation established in the 10th century, had documents dating to 1306 that mention a fish market in the area.

The development of this complex continued until the architect Ugo Vignuzzi was entrusted with the construction of a new monumental building in 1857. The result was the inauguration of the Esedra Vignuzzi fish market in 1894. Two dolphins, symbolizing luck and wealth, adorned the side arches. However, the building was not considered structurally sound and was demolished in 1918, making way for the construction of the current Covered Market.

This new market, characterized by exposed brickwork and Istrian marbles, acquired a Neoclassical appearance and had a trapezoidal layout. The market featured intricate floral stuccoes and was supported by cast iron columns. It became the new home for food shops that were once scattered throughout the surrounding area, particularly along Via IV Novembre.

Today, the Covered Market houses two meat and fish restaurants, a small market, various shops, including a bakery, a butcher shop, and a piadina shop, as well as a cafeteria and an ice cream parlor. These establishments serve as culinary laboratories where visitors can explore, savor, and purchase the finest products from the Romagna region.

The Ravenna Covered Market has also transformed into a cultural and social hub. It hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from cooking workshops to music performances, panel discussions, and various tastings.

In recognition of its historical and artistic significance, the Covered Market was designated as a place of interest in 2008 and later recognized as "Emilia-Romagna's Historical Market" in 2023.