Pleasures of Parma

Mercanteinfiera, an international fair of modernism, antiques and collectibles, takes over the Italian city of Parma every fall and spring. This year’s spring edition, held February 27–March 6, brings hundreds of dealers from every corner of Europe and beyond to Fiere di Parma, a 45,000-square-meter exhibition space. The fair boasts everything from ornate antiques, Old Master paintings, modernist design, Italian art glass and Arte Povera pieces to fine jewelry and vintage designer handbags. This being Italy, after all, perhaps the only thing better than pursuing the lavish wares on offer is taking a break with an espresso at one of the many cafés tucked into the corners of the exhibition space.