Rome, a city steeped in history and brimming with artistic expression, is not only a haven for ancient wonders but also a treasure trove of fabrics and leatherworks. My recent fabric hunt in this enchanting city was an adventure, much like a childhood game of hide-and-seek amidst ancient ruins and magnificent avenues. I’m excited to share my top three picks for fabric stores, each a unique gem reflecting the city’s rich textile heritage.
A City Woven with History
Rome whispers stories of emperors and gladiators, artists and poets. Each cobblestone street, each grand building echoes the echoes of a civilization that shaped the world. The ruins scattered across the city are tangible reminders of the lives that have unfolded here for millennia. For history buffs, Rome is a living, breathing textbook, its ancient streets, bridges, amphitheaters, and imposing architecture offering an unparalleled journey through time.
Rome’s geographical location, nestled on the banks of the Tiber River, which flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea, plays a pivotal role in its history and identity. The city was originally built upon seven hills, the most renowned being the Capitoline and Palatine Hills. Today, Rome encompasses a vast area of over 500 square miles, making it a city of immense historical and cultural significance.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Tradition
To fully grasp the history of Rome, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, would require a tome. Archaeological evidence points to human activity in the Rome region dating back an astonishing 14,000 years, with stone tools and pottery found near the seven hills dating back to around 10,000 years ago. Most scholars agree that the city evolved from a merger of agricultural settlements, eventually blossoming into an urban center in the mid-8th century, marking the birth of Rome as we know it.
Legends paint vivid pictures of Rome’s founding. The most famous tale tells of Romulus and Remus, twin brothers raised by a she-wolf, who quarreled over the location of their city. Romulus, ultimately killing his brother, named the city after himself, an event traditionally believed to have taken place on April 21, 753 BC. Another legend speaks of the Trojan refugee Aeneas, escaping to Italy after the fall of Troy, who, through his son Iulus, established the lineage of Romans who would build the original kingdom.
Rome became the capital of the Roman Kingdom, Roman Republic, and Roman Empire, solidifying its position as a cradle of Western civilization. It was christened “The Eternal City” in the 1st century BC, and was also known as the “Caput Mundi” (Capital of the World). Even today, Rome stands tall, not as the center of an empire, but as a testament to its glorious past, a city of unparalleled historical sites, architectural marvels, and the home of the Vatican.
Architectural Inspiration and Textile Treasures
Roman architecture, inspired by Greek influences, embraced colonnades, open-air stadiums, mausoleums, and monumental tombs. The Romans crafted their own unique architectural style, evident in the numerous structures still standing today. Rome played a crucial role in the birth of the Renaissance and gave rise to the Baroque and Neoclassical styles.
My journey through Rome’s textile scene led me to three exceptional fabric stores, each a testament to the city’s rich textile tradition. Italy is renowned for its exquisite silk, wool, and linen, supplying the world’s most prestigious fashion houses and brands. A silk blouse from the Como region can last for decades with proper care, and a wool suit is built to last a lifetime.
The Azienda Tessile Romana: A Textile Wonderland
My first stop was the Azienda Tessile Romana, one of Rome’s oldest fabric stores, located near the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated. This treasure trove of textiles, housed in a building that once sheltered hundreds of cats, is a fabric lover’s paradise.
Founded in 1917 in Naples, the store relocated to Rome after World War II. Inside, you’ll find an endless array of fabrics, from cotton, silk, and wool to linens, embroidered tulles, taffetas, organzas, and the most stunning damask I’ve ever seen. The attentive and knowledgeable staff added to the delightful experience. I knew I would have to return.
Bassetti Tessuti: Where History Meets Glamour
My next stop was Bassetti Tessuti, a family-run store established in 1954. The story of its founder, Lorenzo Bassetti, is charming: he started by selling vegetables from door-to-door, eventually adding textiles to his wares. Soon, the ladies were ordering more fabric than produce, marking the beginning of his textile empire. Today, Federico and Massimo Bassetti proudly carry on their family’s legacy.
This sprawling store boasts an extraordinary collection of fabrics from Italy and around the world, and has even graced the sets of films like “My Old Lady”, “Pirates of the Caribbean”, and “Penny Dreadful”, as well as numerous theatrical productions. Spending a few hours browsing through this textile wonderland is guaranteed to ignite your creative spark.
Casa del Tessuto: A Blend of Luxury and Affordability
My final stop was Casa del Tessuto, a family-run business established in 1927. Located near some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, this shop offers an impressive selection of textiles, catering to both discerning tastes and budget-conscious shoppers. They offer luxury fabrics alongside high-quality, more affordable options, making it a haven for everyone.
This charming shop boasts a remarkable collection of linen and Liberty fabrics, and I found some exceptional wools there as well. The shop, like nearly all places in Rome, was bursting with inspiration.
A City of Endless Inspiration
My fabric hunt in Rome was more than just a shopping trip; it was a journey through history, art, and culture. I encourage you to explore the city’s textile treasures and allow yourself to be inspired by the beauty and diversity of its fabric offerings. Rome is a city that will stay with you long after you’ve left its enchanting streets.
