Contemporary Architecture Meets Global Food Culture
Opened in October 2014 in the historic Laurenskwartier district, Markthal Rotterdam redefined modern European market hall design. Created by renowned architectural firm MVRDV, the 40-meter-high arch is framed by cable-net glass facades capable of withstanding heavy North Sea gales while providing transparent views into the 11,000-square-meter hall.
The interior vault is wrapped in Horn of Plenty by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam—an 11,000 m² 3D digital mural depicting enlarged fruits, vegetables, grains, and flowers, earning it the nickname "the Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam."
Signature Foods to Experience
1. Freshly Pressed Dutch Stroopwafels
Watching thin waffle discs baked fresh on cast irons, split in two, and filled with hot cinnamon-caramel syrup is a centerpiece experience at Markthal's specialty bakery stands.
2. Aged Dutch Gouda & Farmhouse Boerenkaas
Sample raw-milk farmer’s cheese aged from young (jong) to intensely crystalline vintage (oud or overjarig) with cumin, truffle, or fenugreek seeds.
3. Traditional Dutch Kibbeling & Raw Herring
Crispy fried chunks of white fish served with garlic remoulade sauce, alongside freshly brined herring eaten with chopped raw onions and pickles.