There are many Christmas markets held all over Italy each year and there are many great markets among them. You're spoiled for choice, really, if you're a Christmas market lover that is spending the festive season in Italy.
One particular Christmas market in Bologna, however, stands out amongst the others as especially interesting. This is the ancient Fiera di Santa Lucia, a market that can trace its beginnings all the way back to the end of the 16th century. For a market positively steeped in tradition and history, there is no better option. Just find a holiday rental in Emilia-Romagna and visit Bologna and the market.
One particular Christmas market in Bologna, however, stands out amongst the others as especially interesting. This is the ancient Fiera di Santa Lucia, a market that can trace its beginnings all the way back to the end of the 16th century. For a market positively steeped in tradition and history, there is no better option. Just find a holiday rental in Emilia-Romagna and visit Bologna and the market.
Originally held in front of the former church dedicated to Saint Lucia on via Castiglione, it was moved under the portico of the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi in Strada Maggiore in 1796 and is still held there to this day.
The market opens every day in December until the 26th and runs from 8.30 in the morning until 9pm. There are a great number of stalls selling all sorts of Christmas decorations, trinkets, food and little bits and pieces. While the number of stalls selling genuine local artisanal items has diminished in recent years, there is still plenty of wonderful things to find at the market and it remains an important Christmas tradition in the city that is a must for locals and tourists alike.
Keep an eye out for the local delicacies that are sold at the market, particularly “torrone”, which is a festive nougat treat that is made with almonds and honey. As the presepe (live crib) tradition is very strong in the city, there will also be plenty of beautiful decorations for cribs to be found and purchased.
Most of all, however, it is the pretty layout and wonderfully festive atmosphere that makes travellers acknowledge the market as one of the best in Europe. Join in the excitement and festivities for yourself and feel all those warm fuzzies!