Les Halles de Narbonne: a jewel in Occitania
The halls of Narbonne, elected most beautiful market in France in 2022, are much more than a simple place of commerce. They represent a real symbol of the city, a nerve center of local gastronomy and a unique space of conviviality. Let us dive into history, atmosphere and the culinary treasures of this emblematic market.
Summary
The story of the Halles of Narbonne
Origins and construction
The idea of building halls in Narbonne was born in 1871, in response to the congestion of the vegetable market from Place aux Herbes. The city councilor Paul Jean then proposed the creation of covered halls to improve traffic and welcome more merchants. However, it was not until 1894, under the municipality Ferroul, that construction was voted. The 1892 competition designates André Gabelle as a builder and Léopold Carlier as an architect. The works began in 1898 to end in 1901, marking the birth of the Halles of Narbonne.
Architecture and renovations
The Halles de Narbonne are an architectural masterpiece of Baltard style, characterized by a wrought iron and glass structure. The building, with its grandiose arches and massive stone pillars, is a majestic mixture of steel and glass. Renovated in 1993, the halls retained their historical authenticity, offering exceptional brightness thanks to their little partitioned rectangular shape.
A vibrant gastronomic heart
Local products and diversity of stalls
Today, the Halles de Narbonne welcome nearly 70 traders and producers who offer an impressive diversity of local products. You will find seasonal fruits and vegetables, butchers and cold meats, cheese factories, fishmongers, oyster farmers, roasters, caterers, and even wine merchants. This exceptional concentration of professionals makes halls an essential place for lovers of local gastronomy.
Catering and tasting places
Beyond the sale of fresh products, the halls house several catering establishments where you can taste local specialties on site. Among the emblematic places, we can cite "at Bebelle", famous for its original system of orders launched through the market. Other catering areas such as "La Bodéga des Halles", "Le Comptoir des Halles" or "A cork air" offer various formulas ranging from tapas to traditional dishes, including tastings of wines and seafood.
A place of life and conviviality
Entertainment and events throughout the year
The Halles of Narbonne are not just a simple place of commerce, but truly the "Narbonne lung", a friendly and lively space where we come "chat", discuss and meet. Among the regular events, we can cite:
- Les Grandes Nocturnes des Halles : transforming the market into a huge culinary and festive amusement park.
- The Fête de la Musique : organized by the association of craftsmen and traders of the halls on the forecourt.
- Taste week : with educational workshops for children and entertainment for adults.
- The entertainment of tripiers products : highlighting the "5th district" with tastings offered to the public.
- Christmas entertainment : with games, surprises and gifts.
Social and cultural role of halls
This social dimension is particularly visible on Sunday morning or just before noon for the "southern aperitif". Les Halles are a real social crossroads where the links between generations are woven and where a certain idea of the art of living in Narbonnaise are perpetuated.
Events not to be missed in 2025
Special events programming
- Music in the Halles : a unique musical event taking place until Saturday April 12, 2025.
- Danced in the Halles : Artistic performance on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
- Wheat market : an outdoor market organized on March 25, 2025.
Regular and entertainment markets
- The organic market, organized every Saturday morning.
- The Fries market, a real treasure for lovers of second -hand clothes.
- The full wind market that completes the supply of the covered market.
Modern innovations and services
Eco-responsible delivery services and initiatives
The Halles de Narbonne have been able to evolve with their time while preserving their authenticity. The association of craftsmen and merchants has developed "Click. Halles", a collective delivery service allowing customers to order online. The eco-responsible dimension is also taken into account, as during the Grande Nocturne 2024 which will make a point of honor to make this event an eco-responsible meeting.
How to book and plan your visit
Practical information
The Halles de Narbonne are open 365 days a year without exception, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a service reduced on Monday. To plan your visit, do not hesitate to consult the official Halles website for more information on schedules and upcoming events.
he halles of Narbonne represent much more than a simple covered market: they are the living witness of the history of the city, a high place of regional gastronomy and a space of conviviality which contributes daily to the identity and the dynamism of Narbonne. Based on a pragmatic vision at the end of the 19th century, they crossed the decades by adapting to the developments of society while preserving their essence. Through their emblematic architecture of the Baltard style, the quality and diversity of their products, and the warm atmosphere that reigns there, the Halles de Narbonne perfectly embody the art of French living and the richness of the Occitan gastronomic heritage. After more than 120 years of existence without a single day of closure, they remain more than ever the beating heart of Narbonne, a place where a story made of livers, meetings and living traditions are written daily.
Do not miss the opportunity to discover the Halles of Narbonne and to plunge into the gastronomic and cultural universe of this Mediterranean city. Book your stay in Narbonne now and have an unforgettable experience in the heart of this emblematic market.
Retain
The Halles de Narbonne are much more than a simple covered market; They embody the soul and heritage of the city. Here are some key points to remember for your next visit:
History and architecture :
- Built between 1898 and 1901, the Halles de Narbonne were an architectural masterpiece of Baltard style, characterized by a wrought iron and glass structure.
- They were renovated in 1993, retaining their historical authenticity and their exceptional brightness.
Local products and gastronomy :
- Les Halles welcome nearly 70 merchants and producers offering an impressive diversity of local products, ranging from seasonal fruits and vegetables to regional specialties.
- You will also find several catering establishments to taste local specialties on site.
Events and entertainment :
- Les Halles de Narbonne offer thematic animations throughout the year, such as big nights, music festival, taste week, and triple products entertainment.
- Special events are also scheduled, such as artistic performance and full wind markets.
Modern innovations and services :
- Les Halles have been able to evolve with their time, offering online delivery services via "Click. Halles" and eco-responsible initiatives.
- They are open 365 days a year, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a service reduced on Monday.
Social and cultural role :
- The halls of Narbonne are a place of life and conviviality, where the inhabitants and visitors meet and exchange.
- They play a central role in the cultural and gastronomic life of the city, strengthening their tourist attractiveness.
Faq
What are the opening hours of the Halles de Narbonne?
The halls of Narbonne are open every day of the year, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The service is reduced on Monday.
What types of products can we find at the Halles de Narbonne?
You can find a wide variety of local products, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, butchers and cold meats, cheese factories, fishmongers, oyster farmers, roasters, caterers, and even wine merchants.
Are there special events organized at the Halles de Narbonne?
Yes, the halls of Narbonne offer thematic animations throughout the year, such as the big nights, the music festival, the week of taste, and the entertainment of tripiers. Special events, such as artistic performance and full -wind markets, are also scheduled.
Do the halls of Narbonne offer delivery services?
Yes, the Halles de Narbonne offer a collective online delivery service via "Click. Halles", allowing customers to order their favorite online products.
Are the Halles de Narbonne accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the Halles de Narbonne are accessible to people with reduced mobility, with suitable installations to guarantee a comfortable and pleasant visit to all.
Are there places of restoration on site?
Yes, the Halles de Narbonne are home to several catering establishments where you can taste local specialties on site, such as "Chez Bebelle", "La Bodéga des Halles", "Le Comptoir des Halles" and "A cork air".