Loggia del Mercato Nuovo Porcellino - North Market in Columbus, OH
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Loggia del Mercato Nuovo Porcellino

4.3
·4k reviews·Firenze, Italy

A 16th-century loggia housing a bustling market, famous for its bronze boar fountain and leather goods.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
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Loggia del Mercato Nuovo Porcellino - North Market in Columbus, OH

Loggia del Mercato Nuovo Porcellino

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 16th-century loggia housing a bustling market, famous for its bronze boar fountain and leather goods.

4.3
(4k reviews)

"Rub the boar's snout for luck and explore a vibrant market filled with leather treasures."

Vertical photo
TIP

Authentic Leather Shopping

Look for real leather and compare prices. Some vendors offer great explanations of their craft.

Boar's Lucky Coin Toss

Rub the snout, drop a coin from its mouth. If it lands in the grate, you'll have luck!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bronze Boar Fountain

The Bronze Boar Fountain

Center of the Loggia

Rub the boar's snout for luck and drop a coin from its mouth into the grate below for a chance at good fortune.

Instagram
Leather Goods Market

Leather Goods Market

Loggia stalls

Discover a wide array of leather bags, belts, and wallets. Look for quality and be prepared to haggle.

TikTokReddit
Loggia Architecture

Loggia Architecture

The building itself

Admire the 16th-century architecture, originally designed for silk and precious goods trade.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Porcellino Market

This historic loggia is a bustling hub for leather goods. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. While many vendors offer beautiful items, Redditors advise being discerning about authenticity and pricing to avoid tourist traps. Reddit

The Porcellino's Lucky Charm

The famous bronze boar statue is a must-see! Tradition says rubbing its snout and dropping a coin from its mouth into the grate below brings good luck. Keep an eye on your belongings as it's a popular spot for pickpockets. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So many beautiful things you will find here! Be sure to checkout the famous mercato del porcellino leather market if you're visiting Florence, Italy 🇮🇹 #florence #italy #florenceitaly #mercatodelporcellino #leather #handbags #italianleather #italytraveltips #italytravel #europeansummer
@samricharrd
41.7K likes • 601.7K views

Authentic Leather Shopping

Look for real leather and compare prices. Some vendors offer great explanations of their craft. TikTokReddit

Boar's Lucky Coin Toss

Rub the snout, drop a coin from its mouth. If it lands in the grate, you'll have luck! InstagramReddit

Hago haul??? 🧐 ig raquelreitx
@raquelreitx
17K likes • 320.5K views
Questo è l'angolo tra via Porta Rossa e via Calimala, con alle nostre spalle il Mercato Nuovo (meglio conosciuto come "Mercato del Porcellino"); anche qui il piccone di fine '800 andò giù pesantemente. Sulla destra si trovavano le case dei Cavalcanti, Guelfi di parte Bianca, di cui faceva parte il poeta Guido Cavalcanti, amico di Dante. Il palazzo sulla sinistra, invece, fu costruito nel 1892 dove...
firenzeprimaedopo
614 likes • 10.4K views

Beware of Pickpockets

This busy spot is a target for petty theft. Keep your valuables secure. Reddit

Explore Beyond the Stalls

Consider visiting the attic space for a unique historical perspective. Instagram

Eretta per volontà di Cosimo I alla metà del 1500, la Loggia del Mercato Nuovo fu ideata per coprire la mercatura della seta e degli oggetti preziosi. Nota oggi ai turisti per la popolare fontana del “porcellino”, la loggia ospita degli ambienti sovrastanti -un tempo destinati alla lavorazione dei tessuti, oggi usati come archivio- e conserva una originale lastra in marmo sul pavimento, protagon...
cammirando
74 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Authentic Leather Shopping

Look for real leather and compare prices. Some vendors offer great explanations of their craft. TikTokReddit

Boar's Lucky Coin Toss

Rub the snout, drop a coin from its mouth. If it lands in the grate, you'll have luck! InstagramReddit

Beware of Pickpockets

This busy spot is a target for petty theft. Keep your valuables secure. Reddit

Explore Beyond the Stalls

Consider visiting the attic space for a unique historical perspective. Instagram

Local Market Finds

Seek out smaller, local markets for potentially better prices than main tourist spots. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo a delightful and historic spot, particularly for its iconic bronze boar fountain and the tradition of good luck. The leather market offers a wide array of goods, though shoppers are advised to be discerning about quality and pricing. The architecture itself is also appreciated.

"I think it’s a cool experience to visit the small statue there. From what I understood, you rub a coin on the outside of its mouth, then let it slide down its tongue, aiming for it to land in the lines below. Just be careful—there are people around who try to steal the coins, so make sure yours goes all the way inside.

Aside from that, the area offers a wide variety of leather goods, including bags, belts, and wallets. Be sure to check that it’s real leather to avoid getting scammed.

Lastly, I bought a bag from @famiglia Meucci, and they were amazing! They took the time to explain the entire process in detail. I’m leaving their Instagram here in case you want to check them out or get in touch."

paula pietra santa

"A very busy place with tight aisles. Great to shop for leather and to people watch. Don't forget to rub the nose of the boar and drop a coin from his mouth into the coin catcher. It is silly but fun and you will see lots of people doing it. My wife and daughter both made purchases there so I guess the boar didn't help me."

Joe In the US.

"Delightful Building!
I really liked this architecture for a tiny market! This was really a discovery and I personally really enjoyed visiting this place!"

Paul Vivas

What People Like

Iconic boar fountain tradition
Variety of leather goods
Historic loggia architecture

What People Dislike

Crowded aisles
Potential for scams
High prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, also known as the Porcellino market, is centrally located in Florence, Italy. It's easily accessible on foot from most major attractions like the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio. If you're arriving by public transport, look for bus stops near Piazza della Signoria. TikTok

Parking in Florence's historic center is challenging and often restricted. It's best to use public transport or walk. The closest parking garages are often a significant walk away, so consider this if you're driving into the city. TikTok

Yes, taxis can drop you off near the market. However, be aware that many central areas of Florence are pedestrian-only, so the taxi will likely drop you at the nearest accessible point. TikTok

From Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo. Alternatively, you can take a local bus towards the city center. TikTok

The main market area is relatively flat, but the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Accessing the stalls might be tight due to crowds. The boar fountain area is generally accessible. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo and seeing the Porcellino fountain is free. It's an open-air market and a public space. TikTok

The market stalls typically operate during daytime hours, generally from morning until early evening. Hours can vary by vendor and season, but it's usually open daily. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to see or interact with the Fontana del Porcellino. The tradition of rubbing its snout and tossing a coin is free to participate in. Instagram

Many Florence walking tours and market tours include a stop at the Mercato Nuovo and the Porcellino. Booking a guided tour can provide historical context and shopping tips. TikTok

While generally open, major holidays or local events might affect market hours. It's always a good idea to check local listings if you're visiting during a significant period. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

The market is famous for its leather goods, including bags, wallets, belts, and jackets. You can also find silk scarves, ceramics, and other typical Italian souvenirs. TikTokReddit

Look for the smell of real leather, check for consistent grain, and feel the texture. Ask vendors about the origin and tanning process. Redditors advise being cautious and comparing prices to avoid being overcharged. Reddit

Yes, haggling is generally expected at the market, especially for leather goods. Start with a lower offer and be polite but firm. TikTokReddit

While specific vendor recommendations can change, some reviews mention positive experiences with vendors who explain their craft. It's worth exploring and comparing options. Reddit

Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience. Late afternoons can also be good as some day-trippers depart. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic bronze boar fountain is a prime photo spot. Capture the bustling market stalls, the loggia's architecture, and people participating in the coin tradition. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots of the loggia. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of vendors and shoppers, and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or their merchandise. Instagram

Use a wider aperture for shallow depth of field to isolate subjects, and consider a slightly higher ISO for low-light conditions. A fast shutter speed can help freeze motion in the busy market. Instagram

If you have the opportunity to visit the attic space (as mentioned in some reels), photography might be permitted, but it's best to confirm with your guide or the staff present. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Loggia del Mercato Nuovo offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The Fontana del Porcellino is a highlight, with its interactive coin-tossing tradition that kids usually love. Instagram It's a great spot for a quick, memorable photo opportunity. The market itself can be a sensory experience, with colorful leather goods and the general buzz of activity. However, be prepared for crowds, which can make navigating with strollers challenging. Reddit Keep a close eye on children, especially around the boar statue, as it can get very busy. Reddit While the leather goods might be more for adults, the sheer novelty of the market and the boar's legend can captivate younger visitors for a short while.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Florence can be an expensive city, the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo offers opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. Visiting the Porcellino fountain and admiring the architecture is completely free. Instagram For souvenirs, the key is smart shopping. Redditors advise comparing prices rigorously and haggling for leather goods. TikTokReddit Some suggest that local markets outside the immediate tourist hotspots might offer even better deals. TikTok Look for smaller items like keychains or wallets rather than large bags if you're on a strict budget. Be wary of overly aggressive sales tactics and focus on finding good value rather than the cheapest option. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters

For those who love to shop and hunt for bargains, the Mercato Nuovo is a must-visit. The leather market is renowned for its extensive selection of bags, wallets, and accessories. TikTok+1 TikTok videos often feature impressive hauls, showcasing the variety available. TikTok The key to successful shopping here is preparation and a willingness to negotiate. Redditors emphasize the importance of checking for real leather and comparing prices across multiple vendors. Reddit Don't be afraid to politely haggle; it's part of the market culture. TikTokReddit While the main loggia is a prime spot, exploring nearby side streets might reveal smaller, potentially less crowded stalls with unique finds. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Porcellino

The Fontana del Porcellino is arguably the most famous feature of the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo. This bronze statue, a copy of an original by Giambologna (now housed in the Museo Bardini), depicts a wild boar. The tradition, as seen in many TikToks and Instagram reels, involves rubbing the boar's snout for good luck and then dropping a coin from its mouth into the grate below. Instagram If the coin falls through the grate and into the water, it's said to bring even more fortune. Reddit This playful ritual draws crowds and offers a fun, interactive experience for visitors. Be mindful of your surroundings, as this popular spot can attract pickpockets looking to take advantage of distracted tourists. Reddit

While the boar is the star attraction for many, the Loggia itself has a rich history. Erected in the mid-16th century by Cosimo I de' Medici, it was originally intended as a covered market for luxury goods, particularly silk and precious items. Instagram The architecture, with its arches and vaulted ceilings, reflects its historical purpose as a vibrant commercial center. Instagram

Interestingly, some reels highlight a lesser-known aspect: the possibility of visiting the attic space above the Loggia. Instagram This area, once used for textile processing, offers a unique perspective on the building's structure and history, providing a glimpse into its past beyond the bustling market floor. Access might require special arrangements, often facilitated by the leather vendors themselves. Instagram

Navigating the Leather Market

The Loggia del Mercato Nuovo is synonymous with its vibrant leather market. Stalls overflow with a wide variety of leather goods, from stylish handbags and backpacks to belts, wallets, and jackets. TikTok+1 Many TikTok creators showcase their hauls, highlighting the diverse colors and styles available. TikTok However, as Reddit users often point out, it's crucial to be a discerning shopper. Reddit The sheer volume of goods can be overwhelming, and not all items are created equal in terms of quality or authenticity.

When shopping for leather, pay attention to the material's smell, texture, and grain. Ask vendors about the tanning process and the origin of the leather. Reddit While some vendors are transparent and proud of their craftsmanship, others may try to pass off lower-quality imitations. Reddit Comparing prices across different stalls is highly recommended, and don't be afraid to haggle. TikTokReddit Many travelers find that polite negotiation can lead to better deals. Some reviews even mention specific vendors, like @famiglia Meucci, for their helpfulness and quality products. Reddit

Beyond the main leather offerings, you might also find silk scarves and other artisanal products. Instagram While the market is a fantastic place to find souvenirs, Redditors suggest that sometimes smaller, less tourist-centric markets in Florence might offer even better value. TikTok Nevertheless, the Mercato Nuovo remains an iconic Florentine experience, offering a lively atmosphere and the chance to find a unique, handcrafted item to take home. Instagram

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