Salvatore Ferragamo (named after his grandfather, shoemaker Salvatore Ferragamo) is a member of the family owned Ferragamo luxury group and CEO of Il Borro. He lets us in on the secret spots of his hometown of Florence.
I grew up in Florence and still live here, though I spent years at school in England and university in New York. I commute almost every day between the city and Il Borro, the beautiful Tuscan estate where we’ve restored the village, make wine and run a guest retreat, about 50 kilometres south-west of Florence.
My favourite work of art at the moment is the 16th-century Fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati, called Biancone by Florentines for the incredible whiteness of the marble. [The Ferragamo family recently announced a donation of $2.24 million to restore the fountain.]
One of the most amazing spots in the city is the Corridoio Vasariano, or Vasari Corridor, which connects the Uffizi Gallery to Palazzo Pitti, crossing the Arno River. You need special authorisation to visit – it’s amazing by night. And I also love the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, in particular his enormous mechanical wings.
My favourite wine bar is Cantinetta Antinori, a beautiful example of Florentine architecture of the mid-15th century. I feel at home here – the Antinori family has been close to mine for generations.
For business lunches, and with friends, I love our Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, on the Arno. I’m a fan of the beef tartare and broad-bean risotto.
For shoes, my grandfather’s creations were so prolific and amazing, it’s impossible to remember all the pieces in the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum. Don’t miss the “invisible sandals”, made with fishing wire.
On weekends I love taking my wife Tini and our three children to Il Borro, where we see my father, Ferruccio, my twin brother, James, my sisters and their families. This is where we play soccer and polo, and celebrate special occasions. James and I have a themed birthday party here every year with friends from all over the world.
My favourite experience at Il Borro is making wine. We’re really excited about our “classic method” rosé, Bolle di Borro, released a few months ago and something completely new for Tuscany.*
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