Go--I Mercati

The region where I'm currently living offers something beautifully local and authentic.  Markets.  There are lots of city markets where household items, clothes, and vegetables can be purchased, but the region contains a coordinated addition: Prodotti Tipici Maremma.  


In each of the lovely towns of the Maremma, one can find a market every day of the week except for Sunday.  There, you can pick up cured olives, dried tomatoes, the most amazing fresh ricotta, dried ricotta (a revelation!), shoes, clothes, coats, soaps, vegetables, bread, fish, meat, and other sundry things.  Best of all, the markets usually occupy a central part of town--except in the case of San Vincenzo, where the market is out of the town center.  There, you can really feel the pulse of the community.  People talk, try on clothes, barter, catch up, and enjoy life.  You want to try some salted almonds?  There's a vendor who'll let you sample some.  Interested in trying a new bread?  The panificio in the market will probably have small loaves for you to take home.  I would suggest getting to the market around 9.  Grab a snack, shop, and then stop at a bar--not for alcohol, but for an espresso or cappucino.


The schedule is as follows:

This paper was wrapped around a package of fresh ricotta that I bought.  Lovely way to advertise!