ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the dispute over the markets of La Merced in the context of public policies for the modernisation of food markets and the 'rescue' of urban heritage. It reviews theoretical contributions to the concept of 'urban frontiers' in order to emphasise the porous but clear barriers that separate the 'modern city' from the 'traditional city of the markets'. The chapter discusses the 'regeneration' model of the historic centre driven by the local government in alliance with certain private investors and which since 2009 has spread to other neighbourhoods. It provides a presentation of the main disputes over public markets in the megacity of Mexico City, marked by a discourse of obsolescence and deterioration. The chapter also provides an analysis of the megaproject and the dispute over the markets of La Merced along with the interests and views of the main stakeholders.
