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Mercato Centrale
Built in 1874, the city's central produce market seems to disappear amid the confusion of makeshift stands of the clothes and leather market that fill the surrounding square and streets during the day. At night all of this disappears, replaced instead by the contented munching of punters at the various eateries (which vary considerably in quality). The iron-and-glass architecture was something of a novelty in Florence when the market was first built.
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Mercato Nuovo
Built to shelter a market in the 16th century, this handsome loggia was also where medieval Florence's war cart was placed to let locals know trouble was looming. It also contains the Fontana del Porcellino (Piglet's Fountain), Florence's version of the do-this-and-you'll-some-day-return scenario; in this case you must tickle his bum (or rub his nose or something).
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Piazza de' Ciompi
Named after the textile workers who met around here to plan their 14th-century revolt, this piazza is best known for its Mercato delle Pulci (Flea Market) and Vasari's graceful 16th-century Loggia del Pesce (Fish Market), which is decorated with terracotta seafood and was moved here when the Mercato Vecchio (Old Market) was torn down. It is also a top spot for mums and dads to take the young kids for squeals of delight on the swings and mucking around with equally contented local little 'uns.
Showing 1-3 of 3 results
