Le Case di Cirio - Porta Palazzo

The market areas on the northeast and southeast sides were the best part for us. There are big buildings from different eras and lots of stalls, grouped by product. Commercial produce is sold in one area, while local farm produce is in another spot. We also found baked goods, cooking supplies, different meats, and just about anything else people eat. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The southwest corner was less impressive. The last time one of us stopped by, the large building was still under renovation and closed. The stalls sell hard goods, and on our most recent visit most had cheap imported versions of their specialty items. Still, the vendors were in good spirits and there was plenty of chatter. 🙃 ⭐⭐⭐ At the northwest corner there usually aren't many stalls, and there's one large, fairly new building, Mercato Centrale. It's basically a food court, with an odd mix of shops on the partly abandoned upper floors. The ground-floor archaeological site was interesting, the ramps were fun, and the event we attended at the top-floor cafe/meeting area gave us a very good view of that part of the city. Without those things we'd have given this section one star. ⭐⭐ We were initially confused by the names Porta Palazzo and Piazza della Repubblica. Apparently P.D.R. is the square and P.P. is the market, which has been running there since 1835. It's said to be Europe's largest street market, and we found four sections when we visited. A few safety notes: we saw people selling dubious goods from coats or backpacks, and we'd been told you can often find your stolen bike or phone 'waiting for you' in the nearby streets. We were also warned about pickpockets. That warning seemed justified when someone came up behind one of us and quickly unzipped their backpack as they walked toward the tomatoes. There was nothing in it except some help wanted publications. 🗞️ Maybe that was a hint to Mr. Lightfingers to take responsibility and get a real job, though we sincerely doubt it. 🤔

Porta Palazzo felt lively and authentic, with colorful produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and handmade goods on display. The vendors were happy to talk with visitors and share the stories behind their products. The market can get overwhelmingly crowded at peak times, but that was a minor drawback. I was also struck by a fascinating stone structure underground, once used to store food. It added an ancient touch to all the modern bustle. My recent visit to Porta Palazzo in Torino was vibrant and memorable. It's known as one of Europe's largest open-air markets.

Head south for halal butchers, Moroccan cafes, and all kinds of goods from Morocco. North takes you toward the center of Torino, with lovely shops, cafes, and architecture. Around Porto Palazzo, one side has clothes, shoes, and more, while the fruit and vegetable market offers fresh produce. A must-see for anyone looking for Moroccan things! 👍

There are lots of food options upstairs at this interesting market. I can't remember the name of the place we ate, but they had traditional stews with bread. If you can still find them there, definitely try their delicious food.