by InTrieste
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, the small town of Duino Aurisina is poised to come alive this Friday evening. As the warm summer sun sets over the Gulf of Trieste, locals and visitors alike will gather at the Sokol Sports Field for an event that has quietly become a cherished tradition: the annual Festa di San Rocco and its accompanying market, a celebration of small antiques, modern collectibles, and artistic craftsmanship.
This year’s market, scheduled for Friday, August 16th from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, is once again organized by the cultural association “Cose di Vecchie Case,” in partnership with the Municipality of Duino Aurisina. The event, which is free and open to the public, coincides with the feast day of San Rocco, the town’s patron saint, and promises an array of treasures for both the casual browser and the avid collector.
The market has become a fixture in the town’s summer calendar, thanks to its unique blend of nostalgia and artistry. Strolling through the elegant gazebos that will dot the sports field, visitors will encounter a curated selection of antiques, from dusty gramophones to delicate porcelain figurines, alongside modern collectibles such as vintage vinyl records and rare comic books. This year’s edition also features an expanded array of artisanal crafts, including hand-painted ceramics, wrought iron sculptures, and intricate lacework—a nod to the region’s rich tradition of craftsmanship.
“We are thrilled to bring this market back to Duino Aurisina,” said Efrem Melani, president of “Cose di Vecchie Case.” The association, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, has been a driving force behind the event, attracting over 100 exhibitors from across the region. “The positive response from both the community and visitors last year was overwhelming. We hope that this year’s market will once again be a highlight of the summer season.”
The market is more than just an opportunity to buy and sell. It is a gathering place for the community, a space where memories are shared, and where the past is lovingly preserved. As Melani explained, many of the items on display come from the attics and basements of local residents, each one with its own story to tell. “These objects have lived many lives,” he said, “and they are ready to live again in the hands of someone who appreciates their beauty and history.”
For those who find themselves in this corner of Italy this weekend, the market offers a chance to experience a different pace of life, far from the hustle and bustle of the nearby cities. It is a place where time seems to slow down, where the past and present merge in a colorful parade of craftsmanship and memory.
