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Flea Markets and Antique Shows
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Introduction to Flea Markets and Antique Shows
Cities in Italy have always had their traditional flea markets, and the only other place to look for old stuff was in the shops of the "rigattiere" but there wasn't much choice. However, for the past few years a lot of flea markets have sprung up all over Italy, many of which also allow "amateurs" to rent tables. Some take place once a month, others, especially in the large cities, every week. There are, however, slim pickings in August.
Below is a listing of some of the flea markets you might want to visit, as well as a list of some of the collectors and antique shows with the approximate time of year they are scheduled. In all cases, ask the concierge in your hotel to check for locations and dates as they often change. It's only fair to warn you that although streets are generally safe, even after dark, there's a lot of petty crime in Italy, especially by pickpockets and gypsy children. Leave your jewelry in the hotel safe, your passport, tickets, and pricey accessories in your room, and be extremely careful with cameras, videos, and any other expensive equipment. Carry only a minimum of cash and one credit card for any shopping. Never leave a purse on the seat of a car, even if locked, as thieves have been known to smash the window if necessary.
Arezzo
Florence
Artigianato al Palazzo is neither flea market nor antique show but it is included because it is a show worth visiting. Several years ago Princess Giorgiana Corsini decided to open the salons and garden of Palazzo Corsini sul Prato to artisans who not only show their wares but where possible demonstrate the creation of these beautiful items. See 90 artisans makehats, wooden handbag frames, silk patchwork quilts, ceramics, tuscan cigars, baskets, leather items, gold, embroideries, fine woodwork, paintings and much more. Around the second week in May, date for 2002 is May 10 through 12, open from 10 to 21. Via della Scala 115 Tel: + 39-055-2654589.
Genoa
"Tuttantico" is an antique show and market in Pavillion B of Genoa's Trade Fair that takes place around the end of April. Some 130 ehibitors from all over Italy bring everything from American costume jewellry to rugs, lamps, and objects for collectors. Tel: + 39-010-5451794.
Mantua
The antique show of nearby Sabbioneta takes place in the Palazzo Ducale beginning around April 20 and ending May 1. The small town where the Gonzagas lived near Mantua attracts shoppers from the north of Italy. One of the most important antique shows in Italy. Tel: + 39-0375-52240.
Milan
Parma
Rome
A Piazza Mazzini near the Vatican takes place the second Sunday every month except for July and August as well as the preceding Friday and Saturday with over 100 stands carrying small antiques, collectors items, paintings, and fine artisan's work. Tel: + 39-06-904-4263, Web: http://www.mostre.it
Garage Sale, Rigattiere per Hobby is one of the first important flea markets to appear a few years ago. It takes place ever Sunday except during the summer months in the center of Rome and walking distance from Piazza di Spagna or Piazza del Popolo. Amateurs can also rent tables which makes it interesting when some dowager contessa decides to clean our her attic. You'll find everything from old catalogs for Christie's and Sotheby's auctions to vinyl records, Vuitton suitcases, and old costume jewelry. Piazzale della Marina. Hours: 10-19. Tel: + 39-06-5880517.
Underground is held in the Parking Ludovisi, just off Rome's fabled Via Veneto and near the Spanish Steps on the first Sunday of the month. You'll find old prints, costume jewelry, old cameras, collectors items such a telephone cards, coins, and stamps. There's also a help desk with interpreters. Organized by "Collezionando" headed by Marion Graetz. Garage Ludovisi, Via Ludovisi. Hours: 10-19:30. Tel: + 39-06-3600-5345.
Trieste
Turin
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Galleria Roma Virtuale 2001 contains both paintings and photographs for the enjoyment of our visitors. It was our first web, created in 1994 for the First Night event. 
