| The Borghetti Flaminio Flea Market |
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We've recently returned from a short family vacation to Rome -- of course one of the first things I looked into were the flea markets and antique shops.
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| We stayed in the middle of the city, very close to the main train terminal and within walking distance of many attractions. The Lonely Planet Rome book listed several flea markets and I decided to try the one closest to where we were staying. It was described as "a good flea market where many private individuals (as opposed to professional marketeers) set up stalls. Here you'll find inexpensive antiques, bric-a-brac and second hand clothes". |
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A quick and inexpensive taxi ride took us right to the front gate, where the words Garage Sale in English made my heart beat just a little quicker! Cost to enter was around L3000 (about $1.50) and was exactly as described, with the mix about 50-50 clothing and bric-a-brac.
There were enough dealers (maybe 75) to make me happy and I knew right away I would find something I needed! Although it was a little hard to bargain with my lack of Italian, it was still possible by writing numbers, a little pointing here and a little shrugging of the shoulders there. The merchandise on the tables was very typical of what is found at many flea markets in the States. The biggest difference to me were the many porcelain pieces that were very ornate and formal looking.
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A box full of postcards caught my attention first and I wound up buying several cat cards from the 1920's for a few dollars. A bright red patent purse to add to my red purse collection was the next thing that was a must have -- this was $15. and looks new.
Next was a clear tote bag to carry the purchases. It had "handmade" silk flowers on it (pointed out many times by the dealer), but, it was still inexpensive and worth it to carry my goodies.
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The last purchase was an old silver magnifying glass, this was one of those purchases that just caught my eye and said buy me or you'll be sorry later -- so listening to my inner voice, and ignoring my son, I bought it.
By this time it was getting pretty hot and time to leave, so grabbing our well-used map we walked back to our hotel without getting lost once!
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I've been to a few flea markets in foreign countries and always have a great time getting away from the usual tourist places. IF a visit to Rome is in your vacation plans, this flea market is worth a visit. Next, a visit to the Ferrari Museum and Gift Shop for a few more collectibles, and a listen to the test track.
The Ferrari Museum & Gift Shop
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Photographs (c)2000 Barbara Crews, licensed to About, Inc.
