Mercato Antiquario:
The third weekend of every month, or even in Lucca so curiously puts it, "the third Sunday of each month and the prior Saturday," there are antiques markets in Lucca. The style is that many will recognise from France, a judicious mix of actual (expensive) antiques and cheap second-hand goods from many different eras, in all sizes from huge cabinets for earrings and stuffed animals. Then there's all that, that basically in no way can be called antique, nor even old, like "mini-outlet" for hats.
Even if you have neither the desire or the money to buy something to take home, the market with the approximately 230 exhibitors is worth a detour, as it is both picturesque and entertaining. With churches from the 12th century, mansions from the 17th century and seats from almost every period as the scenery here is a quite memorable performance that you will remember for long.
The market is held on Saturday from 7:00 to 19:00 (but you should not expect that many stalls are prepared before toward 9:00) and Sunday from 9:00 to 19:00 in the area between the majestic (or should we say "imperial") Piazza Napoleone and the Cathedral, that is Piazza Antelminelli, Piazza San Giusto, Piazza San Giovanni, Piazza Bernardini, Piazza San Martino and the many small streets that connect them.
