Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale formed as welcoming transformation for the newly United Kingdom of Italy that moved from Turin to Florence in 1860. Parts of Florence were completely restyled by the moving, demolishing and rebuilding of city walls. These newly opened spaces were perfect for a market maze. This highly controversial metamorphosis was at the hands of architect Guiseppe Poggi, to whom we owe much of Florence's beautiful medieval façade today. The modern Mercato Centrale is an experience that excites all the senses. The food markets are filled with local farmers and merchants that come to share colorful and fresh Italian ingredients such as meats, produce, hundreds of cheeses, wine, fresh truffles, and olive oils. Surrounding the food markets are the free standing markets that offer any amenity imaginable from authentic Italian leather stores, jewelry, restaurants, clothing, accessories, and more.

Fun Facts

• With a little practice, you might not ever have to purchase something from the markets at the regular price; a little haggling goes a long way!


• The surrounding blocks of the old Roman market were once a Jewish ghetto.


• Be sure to peek around each corner to stumble on poetry readings or street theater.

Link

www.sanlorenzo.firenze.it/cgi-bin/news/
pub4_lis_lun.cgi?id=91&dove=The%20
Central%20Market&lingua=en&sezione=
First%20Itinerary