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Port Au Prince Sights

Marché de Fer

1 reviews | Write a review

Good for: haggling, Gifts and souvenirs, Vodou materials

  • Address
    • cnr Grand Rue & Rue des Fronts Forts
  • Hours
    • daily

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Lonely Planet review for Marché de Fer

Several of Haiti’s cities have Iron Markets, but the original and best is in central Port-au-Prince. The Marché de Fer is an exuberant and exotic red-metal structure dating from 1889, which looks more akin to something from the Arabian Nights than tropical Haiti. In fact, it was originally destined to be the main hall of Cairo train station (hence its minarets), but when the sale from the Parisian manufacturers fell through, President Florvil Hyppolite snapped it up as part of his plan to modernize Port-au-Prince.

 

Traveller reviews for Marché de Fer (1)

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    Great place to shop

    firedrops recommends this,

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    The Iron Market was recently rebuilt to original specs by Digicel, the Irish owned cell phone company you'll see everywhere in Haiti. On one side is a produce market and the other has art, souvenirs, and materials necessary for Vodou ceremonies. There are lots of great deals and souvenirs here, but be prepared to haggle! The minute you walk in the market vendors will run up to you trying to get your attention and interest. You may also attract a "guide" who will escort you around the market. Don't worry about tipping him - the vendors will give him a small cut of whatever you buy. I suggest taking a walk around the whole market before haggling for anything. Most of the vendors sell similar items, but the price and quality vary. Be sure to haggle prices and don't be afraid to walk away. If they are willing to come down in price they will - and if they follow you outside you know you're going to get a good deal.

    Good for: haggling, Gifts and souvenirs, Vodou materials

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