Rhiwbina Living 62

city life
market Day
Cardiff Market is receiving a facelift this summer. Here's the history
of the famous venue that's served the city for over a century
Cardiff Central Market, a
bustling hub located in the
heart of our capital, is steeped
in history and tradition. An emblem
of Cardiff’s rich heritage, the market
has been an integral part of city life
for over a century, adapting and
thriving through various economic
and social changes.
The history of Cardiff Market
begins in the 18th century when
the site was an open-air farmers'
market. As Cardiff evolved into an
industrial powerhouse during the
19th century, largely due to the coal
and iron industries, the demand
for a more structured trading area
grew. The development aimed to
provide a permanent selling space
that would support the increasing
population brought in by the
booming coal trade.
In 1891, the Cardiff Central Market
was officially established, housed
in a grand Victorian structure
designed by the Municipal
Engineer, William Harpur. The
building featured a striking glass
roof supported by iron frames, a
design that allowed natural light
to flood into the market space
beneath, illuminating the variety of
30
stalls. The architecture was not only
functional, providing shelter and a
well-lit environment for trade, but it
also added a sense of grandeur and
permanence to the market setting.
The choice of location was
strategic, situated near St. Mary
Street and directly adjacent to
the Hayes, an area known for its
commerce. The market quickly
became a central point for
Cardiff’s citizens to purchase fresh
produce, meats, fish, and a range of
household goods. Over the years,
it expanded to include vendors
selling textiles, flowers, and other
commodities, reflecting the diverse
needs and tastes of the Cardiff
Photo: M J Richardson