Halle Sainte-Claire (Sainte-Claire Hall), Grenoble
Sainte-Claire Hall occupies the historic site of a former 15th-century Poor Clares convent. In 1820, the city acquired the convent and demolished it to open up space for urban development, leading to the creation of a public square. By 1825, the site began hosting a market, which quickly grew in popularity. A small market hall with a fountain was added in 1830, and as the market flourished, plans were made to expand the space. These efforts culminated in the construction of the current building in 1874.
Designed by departmental architect Hector Riondel, the new Sainte-Claire Hall was inspired by the Baltard-style market halls of Paris. Its architecture features a cast iron framework that supports the roof, allowing the brick walls to remain non-load-bearing. The building's facades are notable for their understated elegance, decorated with mascarons, iron arches, and cast iron friezes. A lantern crowns the roof, fitted with wooden shutters on all four sides, while a charming stylized dolphin adorns the fountain at the gable鈥檚 base, adding a touch of local character. Now listed as a Historic Monument, Sainte-Claire Hall stands as both a functional market and an architectural landmark in Grenoble.
Sainte-Claire Hall offer a rich and diverse selection of high-quality products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats, fish, cheeses, pasta, and regional specialties. Though prices may be slightly higher, the quality and expertise of the vendors鈥攕uch as tripe sellers, poultry vendors, and fishmongers who often share cooking tips and recipe ideas鈥攎ake the experience worthwhile. The market halls are compact but densely packed with small, welcoming stalls, providing a safe and pleasant atmosphere for shopping.
Conveniently located with a tram stop nearby, the market is ideal for year-round visits, and the surrounding caf茅s offer the perfect spot to relax with a coffee and newspaper after your shopping.
Designed by departmental architect Hector Riondel, the new Sainte-Claire Hall was inspired by the Baltard-style market halls of Paris. Its architecture features a cast iron framework that supports the roof, allowing the brick walls to remain non-load-bearing. The building's facades are notable for their understated elegance, decorated with mascarons, iron arches, and cast iron friezes. A lantern crowns the roof, fitted with wooden shutters on all four sides, while a charming stylized dolphin adorns the fountain at the gable鈥檚 base, adding a touch of local character. Now listed as a Historic Monument, Sainte-Claire Hall stands as both a functional market and an architectural landmark in Grenoble.
Sainte-Claire Hall offer a rich and diverse selection of high-quality products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats, fish, cheeses, pasta, and regional specialties. Though prices may be slightly higher, the quality and expertise of the vendors鈥攕uch as tripe sellers, poultry vendors, and fishmongers who often share cooking tips and recipe ideas鈥攎ake the experience worthwhile. The market halls are compact but densely packed with small, welcoming stalls, providing a safe and pleasant atmosphere for shopping.
Conveniently located with a tram stop nearby, the market is ideal for year-round visits, and the surrounding caf茅s offer the perfect spot to relax with a coffee and newspaper after your shopping.
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Halle Sainte-Claire (Sainte-Claire Hall) on Map
Sight Name: Halle Sainte-Claire (Sainte-Claire Hall)
Sight Location: Grenoble, France (See walking tours in Grenoble)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Grenoble, France (See walking tours in Grenoble)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Grenoble, France
Create Your Own Walk in Grenoble
Creating your own self-guided walk in Grenoble is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Grenoble Introduction Walking Tour
Grenoble, nestled at the foot of the French Alps, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and innovation that appeals to a wide range of visitors. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and crisscrossed by rivers, making it a gateway for outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and paragliding. At the same time, its compact center is filled with lively squares, pedestrian... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles