This week, we're talking Christmas markets on the blog. They're wonderful things, aren't they? Festive music playing, excited kids running about, happy families smiling, young love all abloom, food being enjoyed, hot drinks warming hands and no reason to rush at all: what could be a more perfect way to spend a day in the run up to Christmas?
While Italy is not as famous as her northern neighbours for her Christmas markets, there are actually plenty of great Christmas markets around the country, including Milan's Oh Bej! Oh Bej! (meaning "oh so nice! oh so nice!" in the Milanese dialect).
Just find a vacation rental in Milan and explore this excellent traditional market for yourself!
While Italy is not as famous as her northern neighbours for her Christmas markets, there are actually plenty of great Christmas markets around the country, including Milan's Oh Bej! Oh Bej! (meaning "oh so nice! oh so nice!" in the Milanese dialect).
Just find a vacation rental in Milan and explore this excellent traditional market for yourself!
Located by the Castello Sforzesco in Milan Oh Bej! Oh Bej!, is a Christmas market that is a key part of the city's history and culture. It dates back to the 13th century and is said to have been “created” by Giannetto Castiglione, who was sent to the city by Pope Pius IV and thanked the citizens for welcoming him upon his arrival by handing out small gifts and delicacies to the local children.
After that, a market was established based on the event. It has been held in different areas of Milan. Until 1886, it was located in Piazza Mercanti. Then, from 1886 to 2006, it was held next to the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio and, in 2006, it was relocated to the area of Sforza Castle.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! is now held every year from the 7th of December until the following Sunday.
After that, a market was established based on the event. It has been held in different areas of Milan. Until 1886, it was located in Piazza Mercanti. Then, from 1886 to 2006, it was held next to the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio and, in 2006, it was relocated to the area of Sforza Castle.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! is now held every year from the 7th of December until the following Sunday.
At the fair, you can find over 400 exhibitors who are selling typical handmade Christmas decorations, sweets, and winter delicacies, you can grab food and drinks and you can soak up the city, all prettily dolled up for the festivities. If you are in Milan this December, it is a must!
