What happens if many countries across Europe introduce days dedicated to promoting traditional crafts? The result is the so-called GEMA – the European Days of Artistic Crafts – scheduled to take place from 7 to 12 April 2026.
Each year, GEMA is inspired by a theme; the 2026 slogan is ‘Cuori all'Opera’ (Hearts at Work), highlighting the dedication and passion with which the artisans carry out their work. In Florence, the lively and vibrant hub of activities will, as always, be the Vecchio Conventino (Via Giano della Bella in Oltrarno), home to the Officina Creativa Lab, where visitors can take part in free workshops and attend themed events. The Vecchio Conventino stands as a focal point for the city’s artisan tradition.
The Conventino is also home to the Artex organisation, which has been working for years to promote Tuscan artisans: this is where you can book free tours and workshops at the artisan workshops on site. Bringing as many people as possible into contact with artisan techniques is a journey driven by passion and the renewal of tradition.
We therefore invite you to consult the calendar of events taking place at Officina Creativa Lab (Conventino): : find the schedule
