Discover the True Heritage of Italian Craftsmanship with The Place of Wonders
A new foundation offers authentic insight into the oldest traditions of the country
An unassuming stone building on the outskirts of Florence, just after the Porta Romana neighborhood, treasures within a world of silverware in all its forms. As you walk through the space, floor to ceiling cabinets showcase the finest creations, including meticulously crafted pieces for the Quirinale in Rome, the residence of the President of the Italian Republic, the Pope, the Academy Awards and icons like Tiffany. Founded by Ermindo Pampaloni in 1902, this family-led business has been crafting some of Italy’s most exquisite silverware for four generations and remains home to one of the few original artisans still in operation. Now under the stewardship of Gianfranco Pampaloni and his daughter Teodora, the atelier continues to honor its family legacy while adding a touch of contemporary to their designs.
Upon visiting the atelier, Gianfranco says, “I create silver for those who dislike silver like me.” In fact, his collections are works of art that explore form and are inspired by various movements and historical influences. One in particular is the “Psichedelia” collection, with fluid, twisting lines along the surface of vases and cups. After you admire these works, Gianfranco will take you through the working processes, from smelting and casting, making silver sheets, hammering and polishing: a truly extraordinary process.
For centuries, Italy has been deeply rooted in a rich tradition of craftsmanship—where each piece embodies quality, precision, attention to detail and respect for tradition. Whether it’s the intricate lacework of Venetian artisans, the timeless elegance of Florentine leather-working or the vibrant ceramics of Tuscan potters, each region boasts its own unique legacy of craftsmanship. These artisans uphold age-old techniques and knowledge passed down through generations, representing their family heritage and contributing to the portfolio of exquisite “Made in Italy” creations that have garnered worldwide acclaim. While exploring cities like Venice and Florence, you may stumble upon small ateliers and witness artisans at work. However, many workshops remain hidden, known to few, or simply work behind closed doors.
The Place of Wonders is a new foundation of the Babini family and hoteliers whose portfolio includes The Place Firenze in Florence, Londra Palace Venezia in Venice and the upcoming hotel Borgo dei Conti Resort in Umbria, all part of The Hospitality Experience. This project is aimed at promoting Italian craftsmanship through a series of curated experiences with selected Venetian and Florentine artisans who typically remain closed to the public. This non-profit organization aims to fund scholarships for young Italian students to specialize in craftsmanship at LAO (Le Arti Orafe), Florence’s finest craft school, to nurture the next generation of skilled artisans and safeguard this heritage.
In Florence, the foundation has curated seven wonders, and in Venice, five more, providing lucky visitors with introductions to the arts of porcelain, gold, silver, metal, crystal, glass, cashmere, scagliola (a traditional method of creating imitation marble and semi-precious stones), tailoring, textiles, leather and art in one of the most extraordinary museums in Florence, housed within a former church. From visiting the only original goldsmith on Ponte Vecchio in Florence to exploring one of the last workshops in Venice where soprarizzo velvet, damask and silk are handwoven, these behind-the-scenes accesses to the ateliers are a priceless opportunity to immerse oneself in Italy’s authentic traditions
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