Christmas Market of Saint Lucy
The origin of Bologna's Santa Lucia Market
Bologna's Santa Lucia Market, the city's traditional Christmas market, is set up every year under the portico flanking the church of
Santa Maria dei Servi on Strada Maggiore. But it has not always been at that spot.
Founded towards the end of the 18th century, the market was originally held in the churchyard of the church of Santa Lucia on Via Castiglione, a Baroque building recognisable by its huge unfinished brick façade. After its deconsecration during the Napoleonic era, the market was moved to its current location. Today, Santa Lucia hosts events and conferences organised by the University of Bologna.
The Christmas market today
The Santa Lucia Fair usually starts in mid-November and continues until Boxing Day. Among its colourful stalls and lights, you can feel the
typical Christmas atmosphere; that’s why the market is a must-see destination for many Bolognese.
If you are looking for a Christmas gift, you will be spoilt for choice at the Santa Lucia market. Here you will find
handicrafts, decorations and ornaments, clothing and accessories, as well as sweets and traditional Christmas specialities. Another special feature of the fair is the sale of articles for the
nativity scene, such as the classic figurines or the scenery in the background. In Bologna there is an ancient tradition linked to the nativity scene, in which, for example, the statues of the various characters are not clothed in clothing, but carved directly in wood or other material.
