Handmade in Lucca: Your Guide to Discovering Lucca’s Artists & Artisans
- Ashley Campolattaro
- Sep 29
- 10 min read
Updated: Oct 15
Lucca’s Studios, Galleries & Shops: A Journey into Art and Craft
Inside the historic walls of Lucca, you can truly immerse yourself in the city’s rich tapestry of craftsmanship. Some of the very first pieces we purchased after getting the keys to our home were made by local artisans, and now there isn’t a single room without at least one of their creations. From paintings and ceramics to leather goods, each piece carries the pride, care, and tradition of its maker, treasures that capture the heart of Lucca itself.
As the city grows increasingly popular with visitors, it feels more important than ever to preserve and support these artisans so their traditions can continue to thrive. In a time when travelers will stand in line for hours in Florence to buy mass produced jewelry made famous on TikTok, Lucca offers something more unique: authentic, handmade pieces created by artists and artisans who carry forward centuries of skill and creativity. We’re proud to showcase their work in our home, a daily reminder of the artistry that surrounds us. And just beyond our doorstep, an inspiring community of studios and shops await, embodying the very best of Lucca’s creative spirit.
Artisans & Artists Defined
It’s worth noting that while artists and artisans are often described separately, the lines between them can be blurred. An artist is typically driven by personal expression and creativity, producing one-of-a-kind works that may exist solely to inspire or move us. An artisan, meanwhile, is a skilled craftsperson who blends beauty with function, creating pieces that are both practical and artful, often rooted in tradition and technical mastery. In Italy, many artisans proudly label their work artigianale, emphasizing the hands-on skill and traditional techniques behind each creation. For this blog post, we’re embracing both, because in Lucca, artists and artisans together shape the city’s creative spirit in ways that complement and enrich one another.
Our curated guide to some of the artisans & artists in Lucca:
In no particular order—because this list is always growing! I’ll be adding and updating as I discover more of Lucca’s incredible creatives.
Vetreria Artistica Marcello Ragone - Via dei Tabacchi, 1
Starting immediately outside our front door, this stained glass workshop is a hidden gem. Marcello Ragone and specializes in traditional techniques, offering both restoration services and the creation of stunning new pieces. Visitors can witness artisans at work and even enroll in glassmaking courses to try their hand at this ancient craft.
Rossoramina - Via Chiasso Barletti, 23
Rossoramina offers beautifully hand-painted ceramics and table linens. Federica and Stefano, the talented duo behind the brand, craft everything from tiny espresso cups to larger mugs, plates, platters, and decorative pieces. Their sweet designs use color and pattern in eye-catching ways, making each piece a unique addition to any home. This is a go-to place for special home goods and gifts at any time of year.
Ziramica - Via S. Giorgio, 13
A newer addition to Lucca's artisan scene, Ziramica specializes in handmade ceramics crafted with love. Their collection includes a variety of pieces, from functional tableware to decorative items, all showcasing the beauty of traditional ceramic techniques.
Zazzi Dallamano - Via Fillungo, 128
While Lucca's bustling silk industry has largely faded, the city's rich textile heritage endures through artisans like Zazzi Dallamano. This boutique offers a window into the past, quite literally. Passersby can observe skilled weavers at work through the shop's front window, creating luxurious scarves and accessories on traditional wooden looms. Steeped in history, they continue to honor the 14th-century weaving techniques that once made Lucca a silk capital. Their creations are not merely accessories; they are woven stories of craftsmanship and tradition.
Elena Camilla Bertellotti - Chiasso Barletti, 21
Step inside this contemporary jewelry studio to watch artisans bring Elena Camilla Bertellotti’s creations to life. After moving her studio from Florence to the historic center of Lucca in 2019, she works in silver, brass, and occasionally gold, combining technical mastery with innovation while exploring form, texture, and unconventional materials. Her designs are celebrated for their ergonomic comfort and modern aesthetic, making them both wearable art and thoughtful gifts.
Maria Guida Studio d’Arte - Via San Frediano 30
Maria Guida's friendly and bright studio is a haven for those seeking colorful and whimsical artwork. Born in the Spanish Quarters of Naples and now based in Lucca, she is a self-taught artist whose vibrant paintings and sculptures reflect a curious, expressive, and joyful spirit. Her prolific work often incorporates recycled materials and explores imaginative cityscapes and dreamlike forms. One of the very first pieces we bought for Casa Campolattaro was her playful rendition of the Guinigi Tower, complete with a succulent ‘tree’ at the top, and it continues to make us smile every day. Her art brings joyful energy to any space, making it perfect for personal collections or unique gifts. She recently opened a new location on my favorite little street in town, Chiasso Barletti 17.
Isabel Pacini is both an artist and an artisan. I first discovered her work at Artigiani in Atelier events hosted by Atelier Ricci, which celebrate local makers and give visitors the chance to connect directly with them. These gatherings are a wonderful way to discover new talent—and the setting makes them unforgettable.
Isabel’s creations immediately drew me in. She crafts delicate, one-of-a-kind jewelry and paints striking portraits of camellias. I was especially taken with her paintings; three of them are still on my mind as the perfect way to fill the expansive wall in our living room.
Held at Atelier Ricci and other studios across Lucca, Artigiani in Atelier invites locals and visitors to explore the city’s creative spaces, witness the artistic process, and uncover unique handmade treasures. Held inside Palazzo Orsetti-Cittadella-Mazzarosa, one of Lucca’s most historic palaces in the San Paolino district (just around the corner from our place), it offers an atmosphere as inspiring as the artwork on display. Inside, frescoed vaults, silk-draped walls, antique furnishings, and breathtaking ceilings create a dramatic backdrop. Anytime the Atelier Ricci events are held, I make a point to go because in addition to amazing creative pieces, exploring each room is like stepping back in time.
Costinel Anciu is a fine art photographer based in Lucca. Holding a BFA from the Corcoran School of Art, he brings a refined artistic perspective to his work. His offerings include striking architectural prints, as well as bespoke photo-tours that reveal both the beauty and layered history of Lucca through a creative lens. Costinel’s photographic style captures not just images, but the soul of the city: the textures of ancient walls, the curves of towers, the light shifting through trees at sunset. As a personal friend and artist, he reveals Lucca in ways many don’t see. Through his prints and tours, Costinel offers the chance to bring home a piece of Lucca’s timeless beauty, a lasting reminder of the city’s spirit and charm.
Another artist we love is Stefani Sibilla. Her paintings offer a glimpse into Lucca's streets as if viewed through a rain-speckled window. Her works capture the city's essence...soft reflections, blurred outlines, and the interplay of light and shadow. Using muted blue and purple tones, Sibilla transforms everyday scenes into atmospheric vignettes that invite viewers to pause and reflect. These paintings are another candidate for our living room wall!
Caniparoli Cioccolateria – Via San Paolino, 96
Located just a short stroll from Casa Campolattaro, Caniparoli Cioccolateria is a must-visit for chocolate enthusiasts. Established in 1994 by Piero Caniparoli, who honed his craft in France, Belgium, and Switzerland, this artisan chocolate shop has become a staple in Tuscany's culinary scene.
The shop offers a wide array of handcrafted chocolates, including pralines, chocolate bars, spreads, and intricate chocolate sculptures. Each creation reflects a dedication to skill, quality, and craftsmanship, making every bite a delightful experience. For us, the highlight is always their pistachio cream—we never leave Lucca without bringing some home! For those seeking the perfect gift, Caniparoli provides beautifully packaged boxes that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of their chocolates.
Officina della Pelle - Via della Fratta
Officina della Pelle is a haven for lovers of fine leather craftsmanship. This boutique offers a curated selection of handcrafted leather goods, including bags, belts, and accessories. Each piece is meticulously designed and crafted by skilled artisans using high-quality materials. Visitors can watch artisans at work, gaining insight into the intricate processes involved in creating these stunning products. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to share stories behind the craftsmanship, making your shopping experience not just a purchase, but an exploration of local culture and tradition. Customization options are available, allowing you to create a unique piece that reflects your personal style. Officina della Pelle has three locations in Lucca, with the Via della Fratta being their main workshop and flagship store, where visitors can see artisans crafting their renowned leather goods.
Calliphora Bags - Via Busdraghi, 19
Located in the heart of Lucca, Calliphora Bags is the workshop of artisan Michela Francesconi, who specializes in creating handcrafted leather bags and accessories. Using vegetable-tanned cowhide and organic cotton fabrics sourced locally, each piece is a testament to sustainable craftsmanship. Michela's designs are both functional and stylish, offering a modern take on traditional leather goods. Visitors can explore the collection in her little showroom off of Fillungo and even commission bespoke pieces tailored to their preferences.
Cose Vecchie di Lenzi & C. S.N.C.– Via della Cittadella, 40
Around the corner from us, you'll find Cose Vechie, which feels like a hidden treasure in the heart of Lucca. For more than five generations, the Lenzi family has been collecting, restoring, and preserving fine furniture and antique treasures, passing down knowledge and skill with unwavering care. Today, the legacy continues, delicately restoring each piece to its original beauty and offering a curated collection of antiques for sale. The shop is spread out over nearly a block, making it a delight to explore and a true treasure-hunting experience. You might even catch the family at work in their workshop, carefully bringing each piece back to life.
If you love spotting beauty in the everyday, you’ll want to check out Lucca artist Simone Chelini. Some of his work takes the subject of ordinary household objects, like moka pots or wine bottles, and creates bold, playful paintings that I'm especially fond of. Often, he paints on recycled materials like found wood, giving each piece a unique texture and story. Walking through his work, you can’t help but notice the charm and personality in things we usually take for granted. Simone periodically hosts local exhibitions where you can admire his unique creations. Follow him on Instagram to see where he’ll be exhibiting next.
Craft Markets & Art Exhbitions in Lucca
Arti e Mestieri Market - Piazza San Giusto
Held every last weekend of the month in Piazza San Giusto, this outdoor artisan market features potters, painters, sculptors, leather masters, jewelers, and more. It's a perfect spot to find unique, handmade gifts.
Meraki Market – Mostra Mercato di Creatività Handmade
Held regularly in Lucca, the Meraki Market brings together local makers who showcase their creativity through jewelry, textiles, ceramics, art, and other handmade goods. It’s a lively marketplace and an inspiring place to discover one-of-a-kind pieces crafted with passion.
Lucca comes alive every two years with the Biennale Cartasia, a spectacular celebration of paper art where the city is transformed into a vibrant canvas for monumental paper sculptures and installations. Artists from around the world showcased their work in both indoor and outdoor spaces dotted around town, highlighting Lucca’s centuries-old papermaking tradition while pushing the boundaries of creativity. The next Biennale Cartasia will return in 2026, offering another chance to experience this unique fusion of craftsmanship and contemporary art in the heart of Lucca.
For anyone looking to discover more artisan markets and art shows in Lucca, I recommend checking out the LuccaWhatsOn and LuccaNews websites. They’re great resources for staying up to date on upcoming exhibitions, craft fairs, and creative events happening around the city.
Scratching the Surface: Beyond Lucca’s Walls
While this guide highlights some of our favorite artisans within Lucca’s historic walls, the region’s creative spirit obviously extends far beyond the city. A short journey east brings you to Florence, where Renaissance artistry meets contemporary design in galleries, workshops, and artisan boutiques. Check out this Florentine Paper Marbling tour in Florence or this Ceramics Masterclass. While classes like these aim to teach you new skills, they also leave you humbled by the artisans’ craft and talent, deepening your appreciation for their work.
Venturing through the surrounding towns, such as Pisa, Pistoia, and the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, you’ll find studios, markets, and family-run workshops where skilled craftspeople preserve centuries-old techniques. Exploring these spaces offers a deeper connection to Tuscany’s rich artistic heritage and the chance to discover truly unique, handmade treasures.
Whether wandering the streets of Lucca, Florence, or other nearby towns, supporting these makers helps ensure their traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.
I’ve been putting together this blog article for a while now, and just when I think I’m ready to hit publish, I think of someone else I should include! Who are your favorite artisans or artists in Lucca? Please share in the comments!
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