Happily, business has taken us to Florence often throughout the years. When I first began my journeys, Florence had many wonderful shops filled with "Florentine craft" items. Wooden carved trays and coasted, gorgeous framed items, leather book covers, address books. I have many of these items in my home and they were wonderful to give a special gifts. Each year, I began to notice fewer of these shops and last time I was there in 2009, could only find one little shop remaining. On the south side of Via Borgognissanti . And, they had recently downsized. Does anyone know of any other little shops selling these type items? Thanks
Posted by
Ottawa
1446 posts
There was a great little shop that I liked very much for handbound journals, etc.. I hope that it has survived - I was there last 3 years ago. I bought a reasonably-priced journal and a sketchbook there. I don't remember the name, but I do remember exactly where it was: Taking Via Ricasoli, from the Duomo, walk north towards the Academia, then turn right (going east) onto Via degli Alfani. The small shop should be just a few doors down from the corner. If I also remember correctly, I bought handmade soaps at the Santa Maria Novella perfumery and a small leather wallet at Santa Croce - both of these in shops that were affiliated with the churches/convent?? Fiesole also had some small shops, featuring slightly more expensive artisan goods too. Good luck!
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
209 posts
There are still many little marbled paper shops. There are a couple on Bargo Sant Japopo between the Ponte Vecchio and the Ponte S. Trinita. I saw fewer wooden items than last visit, but more beautiful fountain pens.