Mercato Orientale

Overview

The Mercato Orientale is Genoa's most important covered market, housed since 1899 in the cloister of a former Augustinian convent. Here Ligurian cuisine comes alive — stalls overflow with fresh pesto, focaccia, local cheeses, seasonal vegetables, fresh fish, and fragrant basil.

Highlights

• Pesto ingredients: Buy fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmigiano, and Ligurian olive oil to make authentic pesto Genovese.
• Cloister setting: The market's beautiful convent columns and arches create a unique architectural backdrop.
• MOG food court: The adjacent Mercato Orientale Genova food hall offers sit-down dining with market-fresh ingredients.

History

The market was established in 1899 in the former cloister of the 13th-century Church of the Consolation. The convent arches were preserved and integrated into the market structure. A modern 'food court' section (MOG) was added in 2018, creating an all-day dining destination.

Visitor Tips

• Morning visit: Most fish and produce stalls close by early afternoon.
• Lunch at MOG: The food hall section stays open through the afternoon and evening.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.