The markets of Florence

Markets are the places characterizing the city soul, as well as  monuments, historical and religious buildings. Two historical food markets in particular,  the central market of San Lorenzo and the one  of Sant'Ambrogio, are the most alive and true places in  Florence town centre, due to the charm of their typical atmosphere combined with the prestige and historical value of the locations that host them. They were built between 1870 and 1874 to replace the Mercato Vecchio in the area of the old town centre, which was demolished in the second half of the 19th century to create the new Piazza della Repubblica.

The Central Market of San Lorenzo, whose remarkable 19th century building is easily recognizable, is completely dedicated to food. On the ground floor are the food stalls for retailers, while the first floor, recently renovated, houses shops, restaurants and cafeterias according to a rather innovative concept.

The Sant'Ambrogio Market is located in a lively area of the city (next to the homonymous church) that has managed to preserve its identity by opening up to new trends.The structure reminds, even if on a small scale, of the Central Market. The buildings of these two food markets are surrounded by numerous stalls selling various kinds of products.