Salò’s Last Cobbler, Sergio Quecchia, Calls It Quits
Salò’s longstanding shoemaker shop, operated by Sergio Quecchia for over 50 years, closed its doors on January 1st. Located in the historic birthplace of Gasparo da Salò, the workshop marked the end of an era as Quecchia, 85, retired after beginning his craft in 1963.
The closure signifies a decline in local shoemaking, a profession increasingly rare in the city. Quecchia’s shop was also a cultural landmark, housed in the same building where Gasparo Bertolotti, the early luthier, learned his craft. In 2013, Quecchia was honored with community awards recognizing his dedication to craftsmanship and local heritage.
Italian Version