The Fire and the Wire
Dorgali | Italy
Heritage
Craft
3
Visit if in the area
Craftsmanship Experience in Dorgali, Sardinia with a master goldsmith and filigree artist.
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Francesco Serra
What is this?
Step into the workshop of Francesco Serra, a master goldsmith carrying forward the legacy of Dorgali’s filigree tradition, among the finest in the world. For over 40 years, Francesco has transformed threads of gold and silver into intricate jewelry, working entirely by hand with tools and techniques passed down through generations.
You'll learn how Sardinian filigree is created—from raw materials to the delicate process that gives each piece its unique character. In his studio, Francesco introduces the region’s iconic forms: traditional wedding rings, ornate buttons worn on bridal gowns, and pendants that tell stories of Sardinia’s past. He also shares his family’s history, showing old photographs taken in the same space where his workshop now stands.
You'll hear about the area’s centuries-old link to gold and silver mining and the ancient repoussé and chasing technique that Francesco still practices. While rooted in tradition, he also explores contemporary designs.
What makes this unique?
What makes this experience truly remarkable is the chance to witness a master at work. In the quiet focus of his workshop, Francesco Serra sits at his bench and begins shaping a piece of jewelry—threads of gold or silver slowly becoming filigree under his steady hands. You will be drawn into the rhythm of his craft.
Francesco, whose work appears in a photo book celebrating Dorgali’s artisan legacy, doesn’t follow a script. As he works, he shares how he became a goldsmith, tracing a journey that began over forty years ago. He speaks about passion, apprenticeship, tradition—and how each piece is a dialogue between past and present.
His voice carries the kind of insight you only gain through decades of experience. Personal stories—of learning, family, and quiet victories at the workbench—bring rare intimacy to this encounter. This isn’t a museum or a shop window. It’s a living craft, unfolding in real time, shared by someone who has dedicated his life to keeping it alive.
What is the profile of the host?
Francesco Serra is a master goldsmith and filigree artist. A graduate of the Istituto Statale d’Arte of Nuoro, he began his career as an apprentice before opening his own workshop, Esseffe, in 1983. For over four decades, Francesco has been creating intricate jewelry by hand, blending traditional Sardinian designs with his own contemporary vision. His work reflects a deep respect for heritage, technique, and the quiet beauty of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
What to bring?
Curiosity is the only thing you’ll need to bring.
Where is this located?
Where will we meet?
You’ll meet Francesco at his workshop on Corso Umberto I, 72, in Dorgali.
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EUR 120
per person
Private
2 - 6 peopleⓘ
1.5 hours
The price includes all fees and tips.
This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 up to a maximum of 6 people. Children under 12 join for free. What's included: A visit to Francesco Serra’s workshop. A live demonstration of traditional filigree-making. A personal conversation with the artist about his craft and experience. A close look at both traditional and contemporary jewelry pieces.
Offered in English, Italian
Private
2 - 6 peopleⓘ
1.5 hours
The price includes all fees and tips.
This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 up to a maximum of 6 people. Children under 12 join for free. What's included: A visit to Francesco Serra’s workshop. A live demonstration of traditional filigree-making. A personal conversation with the artist about his craft and experience. A close look at both traditional and contemporary jewelry pieces.
Offered in English, Italian