Italy is home to master craftsmen and artisans of all types. Whether its hand blown glass sculptures and vases or handcrafted ceramics, these artisans take the time to hone their craft, a skill that is often lost to time. The guild of artisans was incredibly popular in the middle ages - technology and high-powered machines pushed many of these craftsmen of business.
However, there is one hotel that is helping its guests take back the lost skill of master artisans. The hotel is located right where the Renaissance found its start: Florence.
The boutique hotel, The Place Firenze, voted one of the best hotels in the world, has launched the “Place of Wonders” project. It will provide guests with a unique experience and wonderful journey visiting six of Florence’s finest craftsmen to see the exclusive behind-the-scenes activity of what has become a lost art.
Here is what you could expect to visit on The Place Firenze’s Place of Wonders tour:
In an interview with the Robb Report, hotel owner Michela Babini says, “We really want this artisan knowledge to stay in Italy. We want guests of the future to still be able to see this Italian heritage in 10, 20, or even 50 years.”
While admission to see the Place of Wonders project is free, it is expected that guests make a donation. The project also works as a foundation - the money will be used to raise funds for scholarships to help fund Florence’s next generation of artisans at the Le Arti Orafe di Firenze, Florence’s most famous goldsmithing school.
AJ Forrisi
Assistant Editor for America Domani, AJ Forrisi is a Brooklyn-based writer and photographer. His work focuses on food, travel, sports, landscapes, and urban scenes. You can find him on Instagram @aj.photo.works.