Fabulous Finds in Mexico City's Flea Markets

French tapestries, angel wall sconces, Mexican angel plaques and crystal tiaras are just a few of my finds from the flea markets of Mexico City

In a last minute decision a couple of weeks ago I booked a ticket to Mexico City. I thought I was going for a little R&R, and while I did have 2 days in the beautiful historic city of Guanajuato, the other 4 days I spent hitting the back street flea markets of the city in search of treasures. I'd spent a year living just outside Mexico City and was aware of the European influences in the city's architecture and religion, but I had no idea until my treasure hunting trip of the variety of vintage pieces you can find from just about everywhere. I found lots of antique French, Spanish and Italian home decorative pieces, so many it was overwhelming. 

A sample of the treasures old and new found in Mexico City

I assumed that I would find mostly woods, iron and ceramic pieces - which I love and have used in the past to decorate my own spaces, but it was a fun surprise to see so many vintage ornate metals, chandeliers, tapestries and artwork from around the world. The prices were great too, one particular street off the beaten path had vendor after vendor of amazing pieces - at least 5 things in every space I wished I could take home, unfortunately for me I only had so much room in my two suticases. 

These great hand forged keys are to the giant wood and iron doors that line the historic streets of Mexico City

The vendors were willing in most cases to bargain, however all of them knew the quality and value in the pieces they were selling. They were eager to tell the story behind the items they had and it was a great learning experience for me simply spending a few minutes talking with them.

In the heart of downtown Mexico City I found some fabulous new pieces and traditional Mexican artwork. After this little adventure who needs Paris Flea Markets? Just kidding - Paris will have to be my next spur of the moment trip (...in my dreams...) but for now I'm happy with my south of the border finds. It was a fun time of year to be in the city -as always I met wonderful, sweet people and I look forward to returning soon in search of a great tamale and treasure! 

As soon as I saw these angel plaques I knew my mom Denise would love them - I was right

I on the other hand love, love, love this pair of angel wall sconces