The Made In Florence Experience

Salvatore Ferragamo Museum. The Salvatore Ferragamo Museum is located in the historic Palazzo Spini Feroni in the heart of Florence. Dedicated to the life and work of the legendary Italian shoemaker, the museum offers a fascinating journey through Ferragamo’s innovative designs and contributions to fashion. Its collection includes thousands of shoes created from the 1920s to the 1960s, many made for iconic figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Greta Garbo, and Audrey Hepburn.Visitors can explore Ferragamo’s pioneering use of materials like cork and raffia, and his unique approach to combining comfort with elegance. In addition to footwear, the museum features sketches, patents, photographs, and personal artifacts that showcase his deep understanding of anatomy and craftsmanship. Rotating exhibitions often highlight broader themes related to art, design, and culture, reflecting Ferragamo's enduring influence. Set within a beautifully restored Renaissance building, the museum is a celebration of creativity, tradition, and the excellence of Made in Italy design.

Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica of Santa Maria Novella. The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, with origins dating back to 1221, when Dominican friars began cultivating medicinal herbs in their convent garden to prepare balms, ointments, and herbal remedies. Officially opened to the public in 1612, the Officina has maintained its centuries-old tradition of artisanal production, blending ancient recipes with modern techniques.Today, visitors can explore its beautifully preserved historical rooms, including the frescoed sales hall, the ancient pharmacy, and the herbalist’s workshop. The site also houses a museum displaying antique pharmaceutical instruments, handwritten manuscripts, and original product formulas. From perfumes and soaps to skincare and herbal teas, every product reflects the Officina’s commitment to natural ingredients and refined craftsmanship. A visit here is a sensory journey through history, tradition, and the art of botanical healing in the heart of Florence.

Santa Maria Novella Church. The Church of Santa Maria Novella is one of Florence’s most important and beautiful religious buildings. Built by the Dominican order starting in the mid-13th century, it combines Gothic and early Renaissance architectural styles. Its striking façade, completed by Leon Battista Alberti in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of geometric harmony in white and green marble.Inside, the church houses an extraordinary collection of art, including Masaccio’s groundbreaking Trinity, Giotto’s Crucifix, and frescoes by Ghirlandaio, Filippino Lippi, and others. The vast interior, with its high vaulted ceilings and elegant nave, reflects the spiritual and artistic ambitions of the Dominican friars.The complex also includes cloisters, a museum, and the Spanish Chapel, famous for its richly detailed frescoes that depict the Dominican mission. Santa Maria Novella is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the cultural and artistic vitality of Florence during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.