Halcyon Moments: Cascine Park or Parco delle Cascine

Wednesday, October 09, 2019

Cascine Park or Parco delle Cascine

Cascine Park or Parco delle Cascine
Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Cascine Park is the largest public park in Florence. Like so many places in Florence, its history dates back to the Medici family. What was once private is now fully open to the public. There's a convenient tram line to reach Cascine from the historical center, too. Meno male! (Thank goodness!)

I walked to the park on my first day here and was pleased to discover its proximity. A few days later, I was reading about the outdoor markets in Florence, and learned of the Tuesday market at Cascine Park. It sounded like a perfect opportunity to experience local life.

So, Tuesday morning after my run and shower, I walked to the park thinking I would get some fruit and lunch at the market. I was completely unprepared for the size! Nearly 3/4 mile of stalls on both sides of the walkway. The market contained EVERYTHING! Tutti! Food, household supplies, gadgets, pets, yarn, perfume, all kinds of clothes. Honestly, it was overwhelming.

I walked the length of the market and by that time some vendors were packing up to leave. I stopped to watch. What fascinated me is that each vendor stored their wares in a van with a large door along the side. The cloth awning extends from the top of the van and covers the tables that display the items for sale. On the interior, each van is outfitted differently depending on what is being sold. Bins for shirts and housewares. Racks for dresses. The display tables fold up neatly to tuck inside the van. Everything is stored until the next market day. It seemed like a lot of work!

In the end, I didn't buy anything except for lunch: a panino con porchetta (roasted and stuffed pork which is sliced for a sandwich). It was delicious!