Markthal

One of the most popular attractions in Rotterdam is the Markthal. This modern building serves as a combination of a living area and a shopping space.

Inside, there is a large central hall that houses the “market” which consists of various stalls and places to eat.

The Markthal has a horseshoe shape, which gives it a modern and unique look. The building is forty meters tall, with the lowest point being fifteen meters below street level.

Inside, the walls showcase an artwork by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam called “Horn of Plenty.” This name represents the Cornucopia, a Greek mythological horn that symbolizes abundance and satisfaction.

The artwork is made up of 4000 panels, each measuring 152 square centimeters and with a thickness of 2 millimeters. These panels have many small holes that help absorb the sound inside the space. The artwork covers an area of 11,000 square meters.

Two entrances on the sides are closed off by two huge glass walls that are 42 by 34 meters each. This makes it the largest glass facade in Europe.

The covered shopping area is also known as the “Smulparadijs” (gourmet paradise), “Eet-Kathedraal” (food cathedral), and “Koopboog” (shopping arcade).

Inside the building there are also residential units, with a total of 228 apartments in the complex.

In addition to the famous market, the building also houses stores, restaurants, and a supermarket from the Albert Hein chain. Underneath the building, there is a large parking lot that is always open and can accommodate over 1000 cars. The parking lot also has restrooms, elevators, escalators, license plate recognition, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Markthal was designed by Winy Maas, from the architectural firm MVRDV, and has three owners: Vesteda (residential), Klépierre (commercial), and the Rotterdam Municipality (parking).

History of the Markthal

This unique structure was built on the historical site where the first settlements of Rotterdam were established in 1270.

The current Markthal is a replacement for an old market. The first version was built in 1879 in the shopping area which is now called Koopgoot. Unfortunately, this building was destroyed during World War II bombings. It contained shops, a bathhouse, and a hotel.

Many years later, the replacement, the current Markthal, was constructed. Construction started in late 2009, and five years later, in 2014, it was opened by Queen Maxima.

During the excavation work, remains of a historic farmhouse were discovered. In the stairwell of the parking area, you can still see the remnants found, such as pots, candle holders, tools, and teapots. Check their website on this link for more information.

Markthal opening Hours

The parking lot is open 24 hours a day.

Markthal Rotterdam has the following opening hours:

Monday through Thursday and Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm.

Fridays from 10 am to 9 pm.

Sundays from 12 pm to 6 pm.

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