When talking about emblematic places in Oaxaca's Historic Center, the Benito Juárez Market undoubtedly stands out. Located just one block from the Government Palace and the Zócalo, it is framed by the streets Flores Magón (to the east), Las Casas (to the north), 20 de Noviembre (to the west), and Aldama (to the south). The history of this market spans over 130 years, making it the oldest commercial center in the city. Originally, it was in the Plaza de Armas, now known as Alameda de León, and was later relocated to the Plaza de Cortés, a site used for commerce since pre-colonial times. In 1670, Don Manuel Fernández Fiallo helped purchase the land where the market now stands, granting the space to merchants for their trade activities.
The market's name honors the then-governor of the state, Benito Juárez Maza, who was the son of the iconic "Benemérito de las Américas," Don Benito Juárez García. Construction of the site began in 1893, led by a British construction company called "Real Campbell," hired by the Oaxaca Municipal Council. The market was inaugurated on April 2, 1894, under the name "Porfirio Díaz," as recognized by Governor and General Don Gregorio Chávez. Later, in 1912, the market was renamed "Benito Juárez Maza," a name it still holds to this day.
Located in the heart of the city, the Benito Juárez Market is one of the main attractions and commercial hubs of Oaxaca's capital. Undoubtedly a must-visit, it caters to those seeking a variety of products. At any time of day, the market buzzes with merchants, street vendors, shoppers, and tourists, the latter wandering its aisles in search of culinary delights, new experiences, or commemorative items from the state.
The Benito Juárez Market offers a vast array of products to visitors, ensuring top quality, great prices, and exceptional flavors. Its vibrant aisles are named in honor of the state's regions, ethnic groups, and archaeological zones, such as the Monte Albán, Mitla, Mixteca, Cañada, Sierra, Costa, Papaloapan, Istmo, Valles Centrales, Mazatecos, Amuzgos, Chinantecos, Chatinos, Zapotecos, and many more.
It is worth highlighting that this market is one of the most complete, with both indoor and outdoor stalls offering typical and sportswear, jewelry, footwear, backpacks, miscellaneous items, a crafts section, mezcal, gifts and novelties, plastics, decorations, candy stores, a pet section, flower shops, juice stands, sandwich stalls, bakeries, dried chilies, a meat section, dairy products, and seafood. Additionally, there are street vendors selling chapulines, tejate, soft tortillas and tlayudas, nicuatole, regional sweets, empanadas, and many other products.
The Benito Juárez Market has been an integral part of commerce and Oaxaca's economy for many years. It opens daily from 7 AM to 9 PM. What makes this market unique is that it lacks public restrooms or administrative offices, which are located in the neighboring market, "20 de Noviembre," allowing the Benito Juárez Market to focus exclusively on commerce.
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