The Florence markets represent a vital element of the city’s daily life and culture. For centuries, these markets have offered a wide variety of fresh, local and artisanal products, becoming places of meeting and exchange for residents and visitors. The best known and most visited are the two famous historical markets: the San Lorenzo Market and the Sant’Ambrogio Market. Each market has its own unique atmosphere and selection of distinctive products, offering an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who visit them.
A bit of history
In 1865 Florence became the new capital of the Kingdom of Italy and remained so until 1870. Therefore Florence decided to become the worthy capital of the new Kingdom and for this reason the city faced a complete restyling of the historic center. These were the years in which the “Viali”, the large ring road avenues were built as well as Piazzale Michelangelo, the terrace with wonderful view overlooking the city and when the citycenter was completely dismembered by demolishing the Jewish Ghetto and the Old Market.
Florence had to become like the other great European capitals, primarily Paris (the most fashionable city at that time!).
In this climate it was decided to create 3 markets for the city: The largest market would be built in San Lorenzo, the Herb Market in Sant’Ambrogio and yet another one, demolished in the early 1900s, in San Frediano.
The markets were thus built with the most innovative materials of the time: cast iron, iron and glass inspired by the Parisian “les Halles“.
The San Lorenzo market
The San Lorenzo Market is in Florence THE MARKET. It is located in the heart of the historic center of Florence next to the church of San Lorenzo, from which it takes its name. Giuseppe Mengoni, the same architect who had designed the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan shortly before was given the commision to create this building. The result was remarkable!
The works began in 1870 and ended in 1874, and when it was inaugurated the newspapers wrote:
“The Central Market of Florence will have no equal in terms of its convenience and magnificence anywhere else in Italy.”
(period magazine in the XIX century)
The Market represents the uniquely and immediately recognizable urban reference centre, around which a daily life based on social, cultural and civil relations develops.
Among the most recommended stalls in the San Lorenzo Market there are certainly the meat shops. Here 
you can find a vast selection of fresh, high-quality meats, coming from local farms and prepared according to Tuscan traditions. Here you can also find a vast selection of Tuscan and Italian cheeses, from pecorino to parmesan, from gorgonzola to taleggio. But there are also shops where you can taste Schiacciata, Cantuccini, cured meats, truffles, olive oil, balsamic vinegar… Furthermore, it is worth visiting the fruit and vegetable shops with a large selection of fresh, seasonal products.
In addition to food products, the San Lorenzo Market (in the streets around the market) also offers a wide selection of handcrafted items and souvenirs, especially leather and then also ceramics, fabrics, art objects and much more.
Not to forget the second floor of the market with the new concept of street food in Florence
The market is open every day except Sunday from 7am to 3pm and Saturday from 7am to 5pm. To have a list of the shops, please ckick here
Il Sant’Ambrogio market
The Sant’Ambrogio Market is located in the heart of the Sant’Ambrogio district, a few steps away from the Basilica of Santa Croce.
The history of the Sant’Ambrogio Market dates back to 1873, when it was inaugurated to satisfy the food needs of the growing city population. The city had had an increase in population during the years of Florence as the capital of Italy and many of the new arrivals had settled down in that area (see for example the close by neighborhoods of Piazza d’Azzeglio).
Originally conceived as a place where local farmers could sell their fresh produce directly to consumers, the Sant’Ambrogio Market has maintained this authenticity over the years, becoming a must-see for those seeking fresh, high-quality products.
In fact, at the Sant’Ambrogio Market, in the outdoor stalls you can find some stands of direct growers. These are farmers who produce near Florence and come here to bring their harvests: everything seasonal, everything without poisons, fruit and vegetables that have flavor and that can be preserved over time!
The Sant’Ambrogio Market is therefore characterized by a lively and very Florentine atmosphere. It is not just a place to shop, but also a place to meet and socialize, where local residents gather to exchange chats and culinary recommendations. This exchange of knowledge and experience helps create a special bond between sellers and consumers, transforming the simple act of shopping into an educational and enriching experience. The market offers a wide selection of fresh products, including freshly picked fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, freshly baked breads, fish and much more. In addition to food, you can also find stalls selling local handicrafts, such as ceramics, textiles and art.
The market is open from Mon to Sat from 7am to 2pm. To have a list of the shops, please ckick here
In conclusion, the markets of San Lorenzo and Sant’Ambrogio in Florence represent a beating heart of authenticity and Tuscan culinary tradition. San Lorenzo is certainly more touristy and better organized, Sant’Ambrogio on the other hand still has a lot of Florentine authenticity. In any case, a trip through these markets is an unforgettable immersion in the culture of this city.
PS: There are many other markets in Florence, but this will be the topic of another article.