The Ballaro' Street Market is a hidden treasure in Palermo, Sicily. It sits in the middle of the city of Palermo, where cars, people, and street vendors all attempt to survive in the streets.
Vendor's set up stands early in the morning, and it goes until the dark, with all types of flowers, fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, olives, meats and fish. The array is beautiful and colorful, yet the fragrance is ranges from the sweetest fruits, to the scents of fish and meat. There were foods I never saw before and awed in their beauty. There were foods I did recognize, but wish I didn't, like the pigs feet(who eats that?)!.
Presentation was everything! From the play of color and texture, the unique way items were packaged, to the bread being sold out the back of a car, it was more than what one could digest. The sounds of the vendors calling out their specials of the day, competed melodically. Then you could have them cook for you if you wanted them to.
Panelle, made from chick peas, are always a crowd pleaser!
In addition to all the edibles, in the Italian way, there was fashion too. There were other vendors selling vintage clothing, handbags, sneakers, toys and kitchen gadgets.
With so much to choose from, we bought plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and swordfish, that he cut fresh, while we stood there waiting.
Cars and motorcycles, move through the crowds and vendors slowly and without road rage. You will find its vendors in the streets around the Piazza Carmine.Parking is not easy but they have people there to guide you. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk.
It is more than just a market, it's an experience.
It's Ballaro'!
I hope you enjoy the array of photos I took in September 2015, while I was there.
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