Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The City of Puerto Vallarta has announced a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for the historic Río Cuale Municipal Market, a traditional commercial hub founded in 1957 along the Río Cuale.
The current building, designed by architect Alejandro Zohn and constructed between 1977 and 1979, was recently declared architectural heritage of the city by the Federation of Colleges of Architects of the Mexican Republic (FCARM), earning the designation Building Monitored by the Architectural Observatory.
This recognition highlights the market’s cultural and architectural importance as a landmark that blends commerce, tradition, and community life. City officials stated that the designation reinforces ongoing efforts to protect and promote works that contribute to Puerto Vallarta’s architectural history.
In response to this great honor, Mayor Luis Munguía announced exciting plans for the market’s future. He confirmed that a comprehensive rehabilitation project will begin in 2026. This restoration is designed to address maintenance and structural needs that have accumulated over several decades. While minor repairs have taken place in recent years, recent studies and reports have highlighted the need for a thorough modernization.
The market, which currently houses a wide array of goods including food shops, handicrafts, traditional clothing, jewelry, leather goods, and souvenirs geared toward national and international visitors, is poised for renewal. According to Mayor Munguía, initial assessments indicate the need to replace electrical wiring, wooden roof beams, damaged tiles, and other structural components. Additional improvements will include bathroom remodeling, painting, and general maintenance upgrades.
Munguía noted that all restoration efforts will preserve the market’s original architectural character, especially in light of its new heritage designation. The total investment will be determined by the Public Works Department once detailed project budgeting is complete, with the goal of leaving the space “like new.”
Other municipal markets are also receiving attention. The Emiliano Zapata market is advancing with renovations, while the 5 de Diciembre market and several smaller community markets will see ongoing upgrades. However, the Río Cuale is set to receive the most extensive work due to its age and scale.
The mayor believes that traditional markets are a point of pride for the city of Puerto Vallarta, and that they play an essential role in local culture and tourism, making their preservation a priority for his administration.
Your local news matters. Banderas News is your trusted source for Puerto Vallarta news and information, keeping you informed about the issues that affect your daily life. Unlike other media outlets, we believe news should be free and accessible to everyone. Your contribution helps us maintain this commitment and continue serving our community.
