The “Piazza del Mercato Nuovo”, also known as the “Loggia del Mercato Nuovo” or “Porcellino” (pig), is just a short walk from the “Piazza della Signoria” of Firenze. This 16th century building replaces the “Mercato Vecchio” that was near the “Piazza della Repubblica”.
Unlike the “Mercato Vecchio” which was circular in shape, the new building is rectangular. It derives its nickname “Loggia del Porcellino” for being in front of the “Fontana del Porcellino” or the Fountain of the Pig. However, the bronze statue is really a replica of a Greek statue of a wild boar and not a pig. The original is in the Uffizi Gallery.
The “Loggia del Mercato Nuovo” retains the open space format. Similarly, merchants arrive early for the deployment of their merchandise, which is removed at the end of the allowed schedule. So, once night falls, one can find the “Loggia” totally deserted.
