Discover the oldest wig and mask workshop in Florence, where centuries of artistry come to life the Filistrucchi Florence Mask Shop
A Hidden Gem in Florence
If you’re wandering through the historic streets of Florence and craving something beyond museums and churches, Filistrucchi Florence Mask Shop offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Founded in 1720, it’s the oldest continuously operating artisan shop in the city. Tucked away on Via Giuseppe Verdi, near the Santa Croce neighborhood, this workshop has served everyone from Medici courtiers to modern opera stars.
For over 300 years, Filistrucchi has handcrafted wigs, theatrical makeup, and papier-mâchÊ masks for theaters, film productions, and even medical use. Walking inside feels like stepping into a living time capsule of Florentine craftsmanship.
Masters of Mask and Wig
What sets the Filistrucchi Florence Mask Shop apart is not only its age, but its commitment to tradition. Every item is custom-made by hand, using high-quality materials like natural Italian hair or handcrafted molds. The shopâs masks range from traditional Commedia dell’Arte characters to original designs made for modern performances.
Filistrucchi has worked with world-renowned theaters such as La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. It has also created makeup and prosthetics for film and television. Despite this fame, the family-run business remains humble and deeply rooted in local heritage.
A Living Workshop and Archive
More than a shop, Filistrucchi is a school and archive. Recognized as a Bottega Scuola (Workshop School) by the Tuscany Region, it offers hands-on courses in wig-making, mask creation, and theatrical makeup. These experiences are open to both professionals and curious visitors.
You can also book a guided tour of the workshop to see how wigs are styled or how a mask takes shape from raw paper to finished piece. Along the way, youâll get a glimpse into centuries of documents, sketches, and costume history preserved by the Filistrucchi family.
Visiting Filistrucchi Florence Mask Shop gives you access to a fascinating part of Florence that most tourists miss. Itâs not just a shop â itâs a slice of living history where craftsmanship still matters.
