Although Mielec is today primarily associated with modern aviation industry, the old town dates back probably to the 12th century. A testament to this is the typical market layout with ribbed streets. The town hall, which no longer exists and burned down in the 18th century, stood, as in other similar locations, in the centre of the square. The market is surrounded by several multi-storey tenements from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of them have retained a classical or Art Nouveau appearance and decoration. The gem of the market is the Art Nouveau building of the Municipal Culture Centre in one of the corners, adorned with a beautifully crafted domed roof on a drum. The market has largely lost its commercial character and remains a centre for services, recreation, and representation.