Florence is a city that has no shortage of iconic landmarks and museums including the Duomo, the Uffizi, and the Ponte Vecchio. If you’re looking for something unique, step away from the bustling piazzas and make your way to Scuola del Cuoio, Florence’s legendary leather school. Tucked inside the historic Santa Croce Monastery, this workshop is not just a place to shop, but a living piece of Florentine history.
Born from Post-War Florence
The history of the Scuola del Cuoio makes this incredible leather workshop even more fascinating. The leather school was founded in 1950 by the Franciscan friars of Santa Croce, together with the Gori and Casini families, who came from generations of Florentine leather artisans. Their mission was simple but powerful. It was to teach orphans of World War II a craft that would give them independence, skill, and dignity. That spirit of craftsmanship and community still lives on today, as artisans continue to train new generations in the art of leatherwork.
We had the pleasure of meeting some members of the Gori family during our visit to the leather school. They still work there and you can see some of them creating purses and bags. I spoke to Laura Gori for a while about her business and the history of the school. It was a conversation I’ll never forget!
Where History Meets Craftsmanship
Visiting the school really feels like stepping back in time. As you walk through the vaulted monastery halls, you’ll see artisans at work, cutting, stitching, and hand-tooling leather with techniques that haven’t changed in centuries. The school produces everything from handbags and wallets to belts, jackets, and custom pieces. Each item is crafted on-site using the highest quality leathers.
As the founder and designer of Vogelle, it was quite amazing to see the artisans at work as it reminded me of the videos I receive from my manufacturers in Milan. There is nothing like the level of craftsmanship and talent that comes from Italy. I feel so lucky to source our leather from Florence.
One of the highlights was watching the artisans emboss initials in gold leaf, a signature touch that makes each piece feel personal and timeless. Many travelers choose to purchase something here as a souvenir, including myself, knowing that we’re bringing home a piece of Florence’s artisan legacy. Purchasing from the leather school felt much more unique and special than purchasing from the street vendors in Florence. It’s so off the beaten path and still felt undiscovered.
How to Get There
Getting here is a little bit tough because it’s not boldly marked. The Scuola del Cuoio is located just behind the Basilica di Santa Croce, one of Florence’s most famous landmarks. The entrance is tucked through a courtyard on Via San Giuseppe, making it easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there, which is exactly what makes finding it feel like a secret. Look for the entrance below and follow the signs that are scattered throughout the courtyard of the church.
- Address: Via San Giuseppe, 5R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
- Hours: Typically open Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm (closed Sundays and holidays).
Why It’s Worth Your Time
What makes the leather school so special is that it’s not just about shopping. It’s about experiencing Florence’s artisan traditions firsthand. In a city famous for its Renaissance art and architecture, the Scuola del Cuoio offers a glimpse into another side of the true Florentine culture. One that’s rooted in craftsmanship, tradition, and the meaning of “made in Italy”.
So while everyone else is lining up for the Uffizi, slip into Santa Croce and discover this hidden gem. Whether you leave with a handcrafted handbag, a monogrammed wallet, or the memory of artisans at work, visiting the Florence leather school is an experience you won’t find anywhere else. I’m so glad I found this place and am excited to be sharing it with all of you!
