Antique Markets in Umbria & Tuscany
Antique Markets in Italy
One of the many joys of living in Italy is visiting the various antique markets held in piazzas or along the river banks in many cities, towns, and villages. On weekends here near the border of Umbria and Tuscany, one will always find an antique market, small or large, somewhere in the hill-top towns or in the cities or villages in the valley. Not all items displayed are antiques; instead, there are lots of junk and nicknacks, but the ultimate fun is to get lost in the atmosphere and enjoy the Italian culture and its history through these objects looking for a new home.
Antique Market of Arezzo, Tuscany
No doubt, my favorite antique market is the market held in Arezzo, which is held on the first weekend of each month. The antique market of Arezzo is the largest antique market in Italy, with as many as 700 stores lining the streets of the city. On the weekend of the market, the entire city turns into a walking museum of old objects and junk; furniture and booth take over every major streets and the piazzas of this lovely ancient town.
Arezzo, Tuscany
Arezzo is located 60 km southeast of Florence and is one of the ancient Etruscan capitals, with a history dating back to the 7th century BC. The city is a treasure trove of history and art, especially the frescoes in the Basilica of Francesco, “The Legend of the Holy Cross,” said to be Pietro della Francesca's finest work. It is also the birthplace of the famous artist and historian Giorgio Vasari.
Santa Maria della Pieve
Roman Arena
Church of San Domenico
Fresco by Vassari
Piazza Grande
Piazza Grande
Piazza Grande, as also known as Piazza Vasari, is the historical center and the heart of Arezzo. It is famos for Giorgio Vasari's elegant 16th-century loggia which stands out in this large piazza. Several movies were filmed here, including the 1997 movie “Life is Beautiful” starring Roberto Benigni.
Lili’s Shop
My dear friend Lili, a talented antique furniture restorer trained in Florence, has been setting up a booth here for over twenty years. From her workshop studio in the countryside of Campania, she drives 300 kilometers each month to display her collection of restored furniture, decorative objects, and other unique finds from all over Italy. Under the tent is a museum of furniture, objects, and memorabilia waiting to come back to life in its new home!
Useful information on visiting Arezzo
