Central Market

The Central Market of Florence, located in the San Lorenzo district, is a lively and dynamic place, a true paradise for food lovers and a must-visit for those who are visiting the city. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, during a period of urban renewal when Florence was the capital of Italy. Designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni, the same architect who designed the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, the market was built between 1870 and 1874, following the model of the Parisian Halles with extensive use of iron and glass. The building, with its iron and glass structure and stone base with arches, is a magnificent example of the architecture of the time and represents one of the best examples of covered markets in European style. The Central Market was conceived as part of a plan to centralize food trade, which until then was scattered in various small markets throughout the city. This project not only modernized local trade, but also helped improve the hygienic and logistical conditions of food sales. The ground floor of the Central Market is dedicated to the traditional market, with a wide range of butchers, fishmongers, greengrocers, and specialty food shops that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany. Here, visitors can find high-quality meat, fresh fish, seasonal fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, and other typical products of the region. The liveliness of the market, with its colors, sounds, and aromas, offers a unique sensory experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. On the first floor, renovated in 2014 on the occasion of the building’s 140th anniversary, there is a modern food hall, a true feast for the senses with stands occupied by food artisans preparing fresh dishes in front of visitors. Here you can taste a wide range of Italian and international dishes, from traditional Tuscan ribollita to pizza, to desserts like Sicilian cannoli. The upper floor is not only a place to eat, but also to learn: it houses a cooking school and regularly organizes culinary workshops, wine tastings, and cultural events.