Sicily is a land rich in culture, art and tradition and you realize that walking the streets of this city. In the heart of its historical center it developes the most famous flea market in Palermo, a few yards away from the Cathedral, between the Cathedral square and the Papireto street, so called because of the lake of papyrus that formed nearby, where even met the rivers that once flew along the city: the Kemonia and Papireto.
Where does the name flea market come from? Probably because like small animals, in these markets we find decorative objects, which long time ago, someone decided to sell or has simply forgotten, no matter the value high or low.
Initially, for centuries, the nobility, the high and middle class as well as the political class used to attend this market looking for something that would give the final touch to furnishing their homes. This happened until recently, when modern and cheaper pieces of furniture have replaced the antiques and its world.
The flea market is still today a must see especially for tourists and locals searching for something special or magic and old but…watch out from the fake objects.
Among mirrors, , furniture, sofa and sort of forgotten memories something tricky might be hiding behind. An old mirror might have been “antique” with special techniques and sold as a single piece.
However many times it happens that you just walk there to have a look and eventually you will go home with something. The trick is knowing how to sell the goods, no matter how expert you can be in antiques if you deal with a talented tricky salesman and with a beautiful smile, you will go home satisfied !!!
The negotiation is a very funny moment and it is usually made starting with a quiet theatrical interaction between the seller and the buyer, where one of the two parties will give up. Very often that ‘s how it ends on the benefit of the seller most of the time who decides to put the price down and shuts the shop with a few more money and space and less old stuff to look after…
Flea markets are not only in Palermo, others are anywhere in the island.
Here we go with some examples.
Sunday morning market in Sciacca especially known for vintage, antique, crafts and hobby items.
Near Catania, in Mascalucia on the southern slopes of Mount Etna, a nice market with different collections of types of antiques.
In Modica, near Ragusa you can buy second hand books, old working tools and vintage items.
Siracusa is one of the most complete flea markets for the variety of items which include furniture, antique and even shoes.