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The Public Market (Mercado Público) is the most iconic building in the Colombian Heritage Town (Pueblo Patrimonio) of Lorica. It’s located along the Sinú River in the historic town center.
The Building
First of all, it’s a beautiful building constructed in the early 20th century. It’s a blend of the Republican and Arabic styles of architecture, and contains several columns both inside and out.
Inside, you can find all kinds of goods including locally made crafts, spices, household goods, and much more. It’s a great place to find an authentic sombrero vueltiao, a national symbol of Colombia.
Local Life
The Public Market is the best place to spend time in Lorica, especially if you want to observe local life that seems unchanged for decades. On the side facing the street, there’s plenty of life. Street vendors set up shop next to and across the street from the market while locals walk by greeting each other.
On the side facing the Sinú River, we noticed men preparing fishing nets, a man collecting bottles floating downriver, and three men collecting silt in a boat just offshore.
Food
If you want to get a taste of Lorica, visit one of the food stands. They’re set up on the river side of the building. We noticed several women preparing local specialties for lunch. It was too early to eat lunch so we didn’t have a chance to try anything.
