Florence inspires talent perhaps that is why it is a recipient of many works of art. From Michelangelo to Leonardo da Vinci, some of the most revered names in the world of art came or have at one time lived in Florence. Among the more contemporary masters who lived in Florence is none other than shoe visionary Salvatore Ferragamo.



The House of Ferragamo is known worldwide as one of the great luxury brands specializing in footwear and leather goods. Salvatore Ferragamo is originally from Naples, Italy. He made his first pair of shoes for his sister when he was 9.

The 11th child from a brood of 14, one of Salvatore's brothers worked for a boots factory in Boston. He followed his brother in 1914 and worked briefly in the same factory. In search of a brighter and more glamorous future, he and his brother moved west to Hollywood.

They put up a small custom and repair shoe shop. The shop prospered as their creations gained a cult following among movie stars. Salvatore soon became known as the shoemaker to the stars. He was regularly commissioned to design footwear for movies and special Hollywood occasions.

Regarded by his peers as a true visionary, Ferragamo was not the type to sit on his laurels. Instead, he studied anatomy at the University of Southern California to improve the comfort of his shoe designs. In 1927 he decided to fly back to Italy and settled in Florence. It was in Florence where he achieved his legendary status as the shoemaker of dreams. His clientele expanded to include some of the most powerful and iconic women of their generation such as Eva Peron and members of royal families around the world.

Salvatore passed away in August 7, 1960 but his legacy live on. In 1995 the Museum of Salvatore Ferragamo was opened in Florence. The museum has on display more than 10,000 the works of art he created throughout his colorful career. Today the House of Ferragamo stands firm on top of the shoe world. Many designer brands have come and go but Ferragamo remains firmly on top.