Friday, December 6, Saturday, December 7 & Sunday, December 8: MERCATO NEL CAMPO, Piazza del Campo, Siena. Hours: 8 am to 8 pm.
Mercato nel Campo is one of the most exceptional events of the Sienese winter. The annual Christmas Market, organized by the City of Siena, takes place in Piazza del Campo and, for the first time, will last for three days. As a historical re-enactment of the 14th-century market, it goes back to the medieval tradition of “mercato grande,” which, during the Republic of Siena’s time, was one of the main sources of supply for its citizens. It used to be visited by various countryside producers, as well as leather, textile and glass artisans, breeders, livestock merchants, and many others.
In its 17 edition, 130 exhibitors will present their goods at characteristic wooden stalls, evoking centuries-old traditions. The market will be divided into two main areas of trade: food and crafts, each further subdivided by category. Food lovers may expect many delicious treats, including specialties from Tuscan cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be ricciarelli and chocolate panforte, traditional Sienese holiday desserts, which are the usual Sienese holiday desserts. Ricciarelli are almond cookies, covered in powdered sugar, and made without flour. Chocolate panforte, however, is a flat fruitcake, a cross of candy and cake, made with almonds, hazelnuts, candied peel, flour, spices, and honey, butter and sugar syrup. Other options include fresh pasta, cured meats, cheeses, fish, bread, aromatic herbs, olive oil, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and a wide variety of wines.
The market in Siena offers handmade crafts, such as Christmas decorations: baubles, garlands, and colored lights. Visitors can also purchase art and antiques, cushions, tablecloths, bed linen, winter blankets, ceramics, iron items, textiles, jewelry, toys, books, and illustrations of local history and art.
Piazza del Campo, where the Sienese Market is held, is located in the heart of the city, which has been declared at UNESCO World Heritage site. It is shaped like a shell divided into nine sections, commemorating nine lords that ruled Siena at the end of the 13th century. For tourists who want to see more than just Christmas Market, it is recommended to visit Palazzo Pubblico, built during the reign of these nine lords. Nowadays, it not only holds public administration offices but also houses the Civic Museum, featuring masterpieces of Siena’s golden age of art. Additionally, visitors can climb to the top of the Palazzo for a stunning panoramic view of the city. (Paulina Juzak)
