Mercado de San Francisco Jaén

World Capital of Olive Oil

Jaén produces more olive oil than anywhere else on Earth.

The Mercado de San Francisco has been at the heart of this tradition since 1875; three aisles of vendors selling cooperative oils, artisan cheeses, and everything needed for the Jaénero kitchen.

Known locally as the "Plaza de abastos", this is where 50 stalls gather the best of the province's food culture under one roof.

History

The market stands on the gardens of the former San Francisco monastery, reclaimed after Spain's Desamortización de Mendizábal.

Following the exclaustration law of Pascual Madoz in 1867, a permanent rectangular structure was planned.

Completed in 1875, the first building featured an open courtyard, cast-iron columns, and tiled rooftops. In the 1960s, a modern facility replaced it, but the tradition of over 150 years continues unbroken.

What to Buy

Three main aisles organized by category:

Olive Oil

The market's signature - direct from local cooperatives:

• Extra virgin olive oil by the litre
• Single-estate bottles
• The perfect expression of Jaén's claim as "capital mundial del aceite de oliva"

Fish and Seafood

Fresh catch displayed on crushed ice - despite Jaén's inland location, the fishmongers maintain excellent supply.

Meat and Charcutería

• Beef, pork, lamb cuts
• Chacinas - the region's beloved sausages and cured meats

Produce

Vibrant displays from the province's farms:

• Tomatoes, peppers, seasonal melons
• Citrus and local specialties

Specialty

• Artisan cheeses - wheel by wheel
• Olives and pickles - locals swear by their vendor
• Fresh bread, pastries, savoury treats
• Flowers adding colour and fragrance

Cafés

Pause for coffee or tapas - the market's social heart.

Why Visit

Feature	Details
History	Since 1875, over 150 years
Location	Former San Francisco monastery gardens
Specialty	Cooperative olive oils - world capital
Size	50 stalls across 3 aisles
Parking	Free 1-hour with purchase ticket

Getting There

The market is at Calle Álamos, 10:

• Location: Central Jaén
• Parking: Nearby with free 1-hour ticket for purchases
• Note: Market offers discount card program

For more options, see our Jaén markets guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours of Mercado San Francisco?

Monday to Saturday 8am to 3pm. Closed Sundays.

Why is Jaén famous for olive oil?

Jaén province produces more olive oil than anywhere else on Earth - it's called the 'capital mundial del aceite de oliva' (world capital of olive oil). The Mercado San Francisco sells oils directly from local cooperatives.

Is there parking at Mercado San Francisco?

Yes, nearby parking with a unique perk: every purchase earns a ticket for 1 hour of free parking. Ask vendors for your ticket.

How old is Mercado San Francisco?

The market has operated since 1875, making it over 150 years old. It was built on the former San Francisco monastery gardens after Spain's desamortización laws.

What should I buy at Mercado San Francisco?

Olive oil from local cooperatives is the signature purchase - Jaén is the world capital of olive oil. Also excellent: artisan cheeses, chacinas (local cured meats), olives, and fresh produce.

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