Traditional & Contemporary Crafts at the ‘Artigianato e Palazzo’ Fair 2026

 

Fri. 11 – Sun. 13: ARTIGIANATO E PALAZZO CRAFTS FAIR.  Corsini Palace and Garden, via della Scala 115.  Open 10 am – 7:30 pm.   Admission:  €12, free to those under 25.  Free catalogue included.

Every September, the Corsini Garden in Florence opens its gates for Artigianato e Palazzo, one of Italy’s most distinctive showcases of traditional and contemporary craft. The 32nd edition of this fair will bring together 100 artisans and emerging designers across a diverse range of disciplines, from Florentine goldsmithing and Japanese lacquerware to sgraffito murals and bamboo design.

This year’s edition centers on reconnection with the natural world, featuring artists working in clay, fiber, wood, and metal. The key lies within the process of how these artists transform natural materials, and what that transformation reveals.

Beyond the exhibitor booths, the programming is undoubtedly special. Among the many artists, designer Jonathan Bocca created a site-specific installation, Linfa, which winds through the palazzo and garden spaces. Simultaneously, Land Artist Michel Vecchi’s Bosco Sonoro features 25 sculptures carved from fallen trees, paired with an audio experience. There is also a dedicated “Next Generation” section for young artists, and a social inclusion program that brings cooperatives from Milan, Florence, and Bologna whose craft practice is embedded in prison rehabilitation and community reintegration work.

The setting itself features a 17th century private garden, still in the Corsini family, not open to the public save for a handful of special occasions, including this one. (H.R.D)