Spotting the Real Deal: How to Recognize Authentic Florentine Craftsmanship
Not all that glitters in Florence is made by hand. Learn how to recognize authentic craftsmanship with tips from Florence Factory.
Leather That Walks Through Time: The Story Behind Our Sandals
Timeless Florentine Sandals, Crafted by Hand
Discover the story behind our Colonnata leather sandals, handmade in Florence using traditional Tuscan techniques. More than just footwear, these sandals are a wearable expression of Italian craftsmanship, minimalist design, and cultural legacy.
Florence Walks in Leather
For centuries, Florence has walked in leather. From the Renaissance frescoes of Ghirlandaio to the artisan studios of today’s Oltrarno, leatherworking is woven into the fabric of the city. Our handmade leather sandals are inspired by this tradition—refined, essential, and deeply Florentine.
Art-Inspired Design
The idea for the Colonnata sandal was born while studying a fresco in Santa Maria Novella, where elegantly simple sandals appear on the feet of timeless figures. We’ve taken that inspiration and turned it into a design for today: light, natural, and built to last.
Handmade in Tuscany
Each pair of Colonnata sandals is made by hand using vegetable-tanned leather sourced locally in Tuscany. The silhouette is minimal, the lines soft, and the fit designed for comfort—from Florentine cobblestones to Mediterranean escapes.
Minimalism Meets Heritage
There’s no logo. No unnecessary detail. Just a whisper of history, a dedication to handcraft, and the unmistakable feeling of wearing something honest and lasting. Whether you're strolling through Piazza della Signoria or packing light for summer, these sandals are your connection to Florence’s soul.
Stepping into History: Leather Sandals from Ghirlandaio's Florence
Ever noticed the sandals in a Renaissance fresco? We did.
Inspired by Ghirlandaio’s paintings, our leather sandals are a wearable tribute to Florentine style—crafted by hand, designed to walk you through history (and aperitivo).
When to Visit Florence: Data, Sunshine and a Bit of Local Sass
Florence is always a good idea—but let’s be honest, some months are way better than others. We’ve combined the data (temperatures and crowd flow) with our experience as locals to help you choose when to come, why it matters, and what to expect from the city beyond the postcards.
New York Times Travel
It is indeed a great honor to be cited as the only shop (in company with the wonderful fierucola di Santo spirito) worth visiting in Florence according to the New York Times travel.
If you only have 36 hours then…