Every weekend, the site returns to its former glory, with producers, market gardeners and florists reclaiming the area and taking visitors on a journey of regional fragrances and flavours (coppa, lonzu, figatellu, fritters, cheeses, canistrelli, etc.).
Halfway between the Place Saint Nicolas and the Old Port, the market square, known as «u mercà » by the people of Bastia, is undoubtedly one of the city's most picturesque areas.
This pretty square, lined with plane trees, offers direct access to the church of Saint Jean-Baptiste, and in recent years has been attracting more and more young families keen to enjoy the benefits of city life while rediscovering the «village» spirit. Here, all generations mingle and all social classes live to the rhythm of this colourful neighbourhood: local children, long-standing residents and newcomers alike all enjoy the Bastide art of living.
Home to the former town hall, the Place du Marché is home to a number of cafés and restaurants, which have become the meeting place for Bastia's young people as the weekend approaches. In fine weather, the terraces come alive, giving the place a new lease of life, and the square vibrates to the sounds of musical groups playing Corsican songs, pop'rock and variety.
Whilst weekday mornings tend to be quiet, on Saturdays and Sundays the market square welcomes large numbers of visitors – both locals and tourists – who come to do their shopping and discover the flavours of the regional produce on offer from the many producers who have travelled from the surrounding villages. Many people take the opportunity to enjoy breakfast in the sunshine or an aperitif accompanied by local cold meats and cheeses, whilst the younger visitors enjoy the wide range of flavours on offer from the neighbourhood ice-cream parlours.
During the festive season, the square is home to a traditional Christmas market, «U Mercà di Natale», bringing together craftspeople, producers, designers and Corsican groups for several days.
Formerly known as the Place du Théâtre, the area was home to the Théâtre Marbeuf, built at the end of the 18th century. It was not until 1881 that it was demolished, creating this unique esplanade, which today features a stone fountain adorned with a white marble «Naiad», the work of sculptor Pierre Pardon.