Mannelli Pelletterie
District
Piazza della Repubblica
History
Since 1962
The Mannelli family opened its first shop on the Ponte Vecchio in 1956. In 1961, they opened a second shop, also on the Ponte Vecchio at number 56/R, where, more than half a century later, Cristina Mannelli, the daughter of the founders, continues the family tradition by managing the store.
In 1966, the devastating flood that hit the city of Florence destroyed much of the beautiful leather products in the shop, and even the few items that survived were irreparably damaged by the mud and muddy waters of the Arno River. November 6, 1966, was a dramatic day for the citizens of Florence, and it was only thanks to the help of thousands of volunteers that the city was able to recover. During those days, some American citizens passed by the Mannelli shop and, understanding the difficulty the shopkeepers faced, bought the few remaining items with a “flood sale” sign as a reminder of that event. This gesture helped the shop get through such tragic times.
Since then, little has changed on the Ponte Vecchio. The historic shops remain the same, and the walls of the Ponte Vecchio continue to tell a 500-year-old story. Across from the shop stands the Mannelli Tower, a reminder of the family’s deep roots in the city.
Contacts
Address: Ponte Vecchio, 56/r
Website: http://www.mannelliflorence.com
Email: info@mannelliflorence.com
Phone: +39 055 219325