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A stroll to explore Florentine craftsmanship, suggested by Destination Florence

Itinerary of the Oltrarno neighbourhood’s historic artisan workshops.

Strolling the city is one of the most pleasurable activities to undertake in this cultural capital. With each winding street unveiling hidden treasures, there’s an abundance of historic crafts and trades just waiting to be discovered. Here, we take you through some of the best areas in the Oltrarno to explore traditional workshops where you can admire artistry in the making.

Photo credits: https://viaggianza.com/borgo-san-frediano-fascino-dellantico-rione-degli-artigiani-firenze/

San Frediano

San Frediano is well-known for its many artisan shops and atmospheric streets, blending tradition and contemporaneity without ever losing its essence. Gaze in awe as exclusive artisanal products are made before your eyes. Once such spot is Il Paralume in Borgo San Frediano. Since 1952, lamps of all shapes and sizes have lined the shop, hung from the ceiling, and cast dazzling reflections in the mirrors adorning the walls.

Continue along the streets to find the remarkable Romanelli studio. A pupil of the Florentine sculptor Lorenzo Bartolini, Pasquale Romanelli was called upon to complete the maestro’s works upon his death in 1850, leading to five generations of the Romanelli family skillfully mastering sculpture and painting from their San Frediano base. 

Il Paralume

San Niccolò

The laidback area of San Niccolò is a gem in Florence, a true artist’s haven. Close to the hills and the spectacular villas, this pocket of Florence is filled with historic galleries, boutiques and activities that make it easy to spend hours exploring the intriguing streets.

The centuries-old craft of bookbinding is carried on at Legatoria Balsimelli, specialized in the restoration and hand binding of books since 1955. From the hand engraved titles in 24kt gold to the wooden looms for hand sewing, this is a truly fascinating studio that has seen many valuable tomes pass through its doors.

You can’t forget stopping for a bite to eat either as you become mesmerized by the skilled work of these artisans. The Osteria Antica Mescita is the ideal spot for a typically Tuscan glass of wine and traditional Florentine dish in a family-owned eatery that was once part of the church of San Niccolò.

Photo credits: http://musefirenze.it/blog/torresanniccolo/

Santo Spirito

The piazza much-loved by locals and all those enamoured with the city is a hub of creativity as young people in particular flock for its unique vibe. Alongside the innovative is the traditional, as is the case in most of Florence. Here, you’ll find the master Mannina carry out his shoemaking, taught to him by his father. The made-to-measure shoes of the upmost quality and originality always retain the tried and tested traditional methods.

Photo credits: https://www.tuscanypeople.com/quartiere-di-santo-spirito-firenze/

If you’re seeking something shiny, you won’t be disappointed by the Fratelli Peruzzi jewelers, creating silver wonders since 1880. Currently owned by the fourth generation of the family, they represent excellence in silverware craftsmanship.

Mannina

Undoubtedly, wherever you choose to take your passeggiata in the city, you’re bound to find something to marvellous to admire. Find the part of Florence that most speaks to you and delve into the remarkable and endless beauty to be found there.