The Mercado Modelo, in the heart of downtown Santiago de los Caballeros, is a place for locals and tourists alike. It was hit by a voracious fire in the early hours of Friday 2 August 2024.
The century-old structure on Calle El Sol, was once the “supermarket” for the city, where fresh produce and meats were available as well as most of the items on a Dominican menu. With the arrival of modern supermarkets, the expansion of the city itself, and the exodus of people from the city center itself, the Mercado Modelo had seen the last of its usefulness. And so, it was converted into a center for artisans, jewelers, casual dress shops and tourist keepsakes.
Most of the small businesses were frequented by locals looking for something to gift or by tourists lucky enough to be taken there by a savvy tour guide. Prices were modest and the products were truly “Dominican” for the travelers.
The fire damaged at least 105 of the stalls in the market, and perhaps as many as 60 were completely wiped out. It took the local Fire Department over 12 hours to put the fire out. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.
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Listin Diario
5 August 2024