Our Story

A Family Tradition of Italian Leather Craftsmanship Since 1959

A Family Tradition of Italian Leather Craftsmanship Since 1959

Historical photo (1959): The Del Giudice family creating handcrafted Italian leather bags in their kitchen-workshop in Rome
The story of a Roman family workshop dedicated to Italian leather craftsmanship since 1959.
The story of a Roman family workshop dedicated to Italian leather craftsmanship since 1959.

1950s – Our Beginnings as Craftsmen of Leather Goods

1950s
Our Beginnings as Craftsmen of Leather Goods

In the early 1950s, Rita and Marcello were a young newlywed couple. They dreamed of creating leather bags and accessories that would last a lifetime, combining timeless design with authentic craftsmanship. In 1959, their dream became a reality when they founded a company specializing in handcrafted Italian leather goods, a legacy that continues today.

The workshop quickly earned a reputation for the quality of its leather goods and attention to detail. Their dedication to craftsmanship was reflected in every bag they produced, helping establish the foundations of what would later become Del Giudice Roma.

1960s – The Opening of Our First Leather Shop in Rome

1960s
The Opening of Our First Leather Shop in Rome

The 1960s marked a milestone in the company’s history with the opening of the first leather goods store in Rome, in the Appio Latino neighborhood. The workshop was housed in the room above, where production activities experienced significant growth. During Italy’s economic boom, the company expanded its operations by hiring new craftsmen and increasing the production of leather bags, as well as professional and travel items such as briefcases, messenger bags, backpacks, travel bags and small leather accessories.

Pictures from the 70s, of the Del Giudice Roma leather goods shop in Rome
Advertising poster from the 70s, of the Del Giudice Roma leather goods shop in Rome

1970s – Growth as Artisan Firm

1970s
Growth as
Artisan Firm

The company also began exporting worldwide. Rita and Marcello’s leather workshop buzzed with activity as new artisans joined the team, bringing fresh skills and ideas. Their commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design ensured that each item maintained consistent quality and attention to detail. The company received numerous awards for its artisanal craftsmanship and the originality of its designs, further strengthening the reputation of the brand over the years.

A photo taken in the 70s, with the artisans in the Del Giudice Roma workshop.

The leather workshop and its craftsmen: photos from the 70s.

1980s-90s – Craftsmen at Work: the Family Collaboration

1980s-90s
Craftmen at Work: Family
Collaboration 

Mauro and Andrea, the founder’s sons, became actively involved in the family workshop, allowing their father to focus on research and development while they oversaw production, materials and craftsmanship, helping expand the company’s output. During these years, the company also participated in numerous trade fairs in Italy and abroad.

The founder's sons joined the company and assisted their father in crafting leather goods.

1982. Marcello Del Giudice with his sons

The founder's sons joined the company and assisted their father in crafting leather goods.

1982. Marcello Del Giudice with his sons

2000s to Today – The New Leather Shop in Rome and the Ongoing Tradition

2000s to Today
The New Leather Shop in Rome and the Ongoing Tradition

The Del Giudice Roma brand was established, and even the youngest members of the family continue to contribute to the company today. This period also marked the opening of a leather goods shop in the historic center of Rome, on Via dei Coronari 2, where handcrafted leather bags and accessories are sold directly to customers who appreciate authentic Made in Italy craftsmanship.

To this day, all products are crafted in the leather workshop in Rome using carefully selected Italian leathers and high-quality materials. Del Giudice Roma also offers bespoke and custom bags for customers looking for more personalized leather creations.

Del Giudice Roma leather shop-the window

2018. The leather shop in Rome

Mauro and Andrea Del Giudice today, inside their workshop

2019. Mauro and Andrea Del Giudice

Awards & Recognitions

Rome, 1976 “Excellence of Manufacturing” | Rome, 1977 “Seriousness and Progress” | Rome, 1977 “Castel Sant’Angelo for Fashion” | Milan, 2006 Mipel Trade Fair “Innovation Nomination” | 2015/2020 “Certificate of Excellence” by TripAdvisor.