ROCCO FRANZI

The patriarch

View of Piazza del Duomo in Milan - Luigi Premazzi (1846)

Born into a family of artisans in Viggiù, in the heart of the Lombard countryside, Rocco Franzi learns the art of carpentry at a young age

He specializes in crafting sturdy, well-constructed trunks that accompained travelers on their journeys by train or ship

Rocco's destiny takes an unexpected turn with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. He clearly sees an opportunity in emerging technologies and the development of transportation

He decides to move his business to Milan, setting up his laboratory in Via dell'Arcivescovado. There, he brings with him his family's ancient craftsmanship and a strong desire for innovation

Among his most daring and acclaimed creations is the ''Leggerissimo'' trunk (the '' Ultralight''), a true symbol of Rocco's visionary spirit. Designed to lighten travelers' luggage, it was crafted using a combination of wood and parchment or leather

The Leggerissimo becomes Franzi's first bestseller, marking the beginning of the company's success and the family's shift from carpenters to leather artisans

Franzi's first laboratory in Milan, Vicolo dei Facchini 2 - Milano