Plaza de la Merced Market (LaMerced&Co Artisan Market)

On the first Sunday of each month, Málaga's historic Plaza de la Merced comes alive with wares from local artisans in the Square.

Just steps from Picasso's birthplace, this open-air event gathers Andalusian artisans, designers, and makers into one of the city's most iconic plazas.

From morning until evening, stalls brim with handmade fashion, jewellery, ceramics, and illustrations, while locals and visitors browse beneath the shade of the square's trees.

History & Context

Organised by CATs Markets in collaboration with the Málaga City Council, LaMerced&Co was created as an alternative market platform for local artisans and independent designers.

Over the years, it has grown into a reference point for Málaga's creative scene, recognised as the city's most alternative street market.

Beyond its monthly editions, special markets are sometimes scheduled, doubling the opportunity for artisans to present their work and for shoppers to discover unique finds.

Market Stalls

LaMerced&Co features a carefully curated range of handmade and design-focused stalls:

• Designer fashion & accessories: original clothing, bags, hats, and statement pieces.
• Ceramics & home décor: artisanal pottery, functional and decorative items.
• Illustration & art: local illustrators and visual artists selling prints and originals.
• Textile crafts: embroidery, macramé, and handwoven goods.
• Jewellery: handcrafted earrings, necklaces, and accessories.

The focus is firmly on creativity, originality, and handmade quality rather than mass-produced goods.

Market Highlights

• Creative hub: a stage for some of the best Andalusian artisans and independent designers.
• Historic setting: held in Plaza de la Merced, one of Málaga's most emblematic squares.
• Alternative character: distinct from traditional food or flea markets, LaMerced&Co emphasises design, sustainability, and artistry.

Summary

Each edition of the market turns Plaza de la Merced into an open-air gallery, with artisans showcasing fashion, ceramics, illustration, and handmade crafts.

For locals, it's a monthly ritual; for visitors, it's a chance to see a different side of Málaga, away from souvenirs and towards authentic design.

Surrounded by cafés, cultural landmarks, and the birthplace of Picasso, this market captures the fusion of history and creativity at the city's core.

Explore all Markets in Malaga.

Getting There

The market is in Plaza de la Merced:

• Location: Historic centre, near Picasso's birthplace
• Organiser: CATs Markets
• Character: Alternative, design-focused, artisan

For more options, see our Málaga markets guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is LaMerced&Co Market?

First Sunday of each month, 11am to 7pm in Plaza de la Merced. Special editions are sometimes scheduled - check CATs Markets for updates.

What makes this market different?

It's Málaga's most alternative street market, focusing exclusively on independent artisans and designers. Curated by CATs Markets with Málaga City Council, it emphasises creativity, originality, and handmade quality over mass-produced goods.

What is sold at the market?

Designer fashion and accessories, artisanal ceramics and pottery, illustration and art prints, textile crafts (embroidery, macramé, handwoven goods), and handcrafted jewellery.

Is it near tourist attractions?

Yes - Plaza de la Merced is one of Málaga's most iconic squares, just steps from Picasso's birthplace. The historic setting and surrounding cafés make it easy to extend your visit.

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