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La Mariscal Artisanal Market
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Landmark
The La Mariscal Artisanal Market is located in the heart of Quito's tourist district and serves as the premier hub for traditional Ecuadorian handicrafts in the capital. Established in May 2000, the market was designed to provide a centralized and structured environment for local artisans who previously operated in various scattered locations across the city. The market features over 200 stalls offering a vast array of goods that represent the diverse cultural heritage of Ecuador's provinces. Notable items include hand-woven textiles from Otavalo, world-renowned Panama hats from Cuenca, and intricate jewelry made from silver and tagua nuts. The layout of the market is practical and lively, encouraging visitors to explore the specialized sections dedicated to leather goods, musical instruments, and local artwork. It plays a vital role in the local economy by providing direct market access for small-scale producers and family workshops from remote Andean and coastal regions. Beyond commerce, the market acts as a cultural showcase, where traditional techniques and materials are preserved and shared with a global audience.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana · Arco de la circasiana · Parque El Ejido
- Nearby: Sangolquí (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 143 | 176 | 177 | 123 | 58 | 34 | 25 | 38 | 76 | 90 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The La Mariscal Artisanal Market in Quito is a lively outdoor market open daily. Vendors offer their goods from morning until late evening. Entry is free, and you can wander among the colorful stalls at your leisure.
Typical hours
The market is typically open from around 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, though many stalls close in the afternoon. Saturdays are the busiest. Hours vary by vendor, but mornings are best for the full selection.
Photography
Photography is welcome at the market, but always ask vendors politely first. Colorful textiles and jewelry make great subjects. Avoid using flash to maintain the lively atmosphere.
Time needed
Allow one to two hours for a leisurely stroll through the market. If you plan to shop for souvenirs, budget extra time. Take your time to browse the various stalls for the best finds.
Combine with
The market is in the lively La Mariscal neighborhood, full of cafés and restaurants. Combine your visit with a walk to nearby El Ejido Park. The modern art museum is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The market is in Quito's historic center, easily reached by taxi or bus. Many tourists use the hop-on-hop-off bus. Parking is scarce, so public transport is recommended.
Insider tip
Haggling is common - start by offering half the asking price. Come early in the morning for the best selection of crafts. Bring cash in small bills, as cards are often not accepted.
Geography
Facts
- The market was officially inaugurated on May 12, 2000.
- There are over 200 individual vendor stalls within the facility.
- The market is situated at the intersection of Jorge Washington and Juan León Mera streets.
- It is a primary location for purchasing authentic Ecuadorian Toquilla straw hats.
- The tagua nut carvings sold here are often referred to as 'vegetable ivory'.
- The market supports artisans from all 24 provinces of Ecuador through direct sales.
Explore nearby
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Sights in the town La Mariscal Artisanal Market (14)
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Frequently asked questions
What can you buy at this market?
You can find handmade textiles, alpaca wool, jewelry, and souvenirs from all over Ecuador.
Is bargaining common at the market?
Yes, friendly bargaining (regateo) is common and often part of the shopping experience.
What are the opening hours of the market?
The market is usually open daily from 09:00 to 18:00.
Can I pay by credit card?
Some larger stalls accept cards, but cash (USD) is preferred for better prices.
Is food also available for purchase there?
It's primarily crafts, but small stalls with local snacks are available nearby.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market: where is it located?
La Mariscal Artisanal Market is located in Ecuador.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana, Arco de la circasiana, Parque El Ejido.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market: why is it worth visiting?
The La Mariscal Artisanal Market is located in the heart of Quito's tourist district and serves as the premier hub for traditional Ecuadorian handicrafts in the capital.
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Nearby cities
Quito
The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.
Cayambe
An agricultural city at the foot of the mighty Cayambe volcano, known for its flowers and cheeses.
Archidona
Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
Saquisilí
Saquisilí is an authentic Andean town famous for hosting one of the most vibrant and expansive indigenous markets in Ecuador every Thursday.
History & landmarks
Sucre National Theater
The oldest and most prestigious opera house in Quito, housed in a magnificent neoclassical building.
Independence Monument
A historic column monument in the heart of Plaza Grande in Quito, honoring the first cry of independence.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
The main Catholic church of Quito, located on Plaza Grande, famous for its white facade and colonial art.
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium
The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
Quito Cable Car
One of the highest aerial lifts in the world, taking visitors from the city center up the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano.
Virgin of El Panecillo
A giant aluminum statue on a hilltop that watches over the entire city of Quito.
Cyclist Monument
A stylized sculpture at a busy intersection in Quito, dedicated to eco-friendly transportation.
More places
Basílica del Voto Nacional
A monumental neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, the largest of its kind in South America.
Convento de San Agustín
A significant colonial convent in Quito where Ecuador's declaration of independence was signed.
Palacio de Carondelet
The seat of government of the Republic of Ecuador in the historic center of Quito.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena
A historic monastery in Quito offering a glimpse into colonial monastic life.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo
A Dominican church in the heart of Quito, known for its rich Baroque interior and the plaza in front of it.
La Compañía de Jesús
A magnificent Jesuit church in Quito, famous for its main nave completely decorated with gold leaf.
Iglesia de San Francisco
A massive Catholic complex in Quito and the largest architectural ensemble among the historical centers in the Americas.
Santuario de Guápulo
One of the oldest churches in Ecuador, built in the picturesque neighborhood of Guápulo on the hillside of Quito.