The Antique Market in Campo San Maurizio has been the most bountiful market in Venice since it first started in 1970. It takes place in a spot close to the most crowded areas of the city, Although there you can still breathe authenticity and intimacy.

If you happen to be in Venice during one of the five weekends when the historic San Maurizio antiques market takes place, a visit is a must.

There are many exhibitors and they come from different cities in Italy. Each of them exhibits various goods, objects and curiosities from the past: books, furs, pipes, Murano chandeliers, old postcards, vintage shoes, pocket watches, leather bags, carpets and sunglasses, tea and coffee cups and plates, cutlery and jewellery.

There are pieces from the 1600s to the 1900s, beautiful and precious on display on typical wooden stands, and they attract many collectors and discerning experts. The stands are stormed by all sorts of interesting characters: from fashion-forward shopkeepers to local grandmothers.

My favourite things are all the minutiae and pieces of clothing that have been left behind; maybe you can even find something perfect for you.