Gucci celebrates its roots with Cruise 2026 show in historic archive
Gucci, the Florence-born fashion house owned by Kering, will return to its hometown to present the Cruise 2026 collection with a show at the brand's archive inside Palazzo Settimanni, located on Via delle Caldaie.
"Returning to Florence — particularly to Palazzo Settimanni — is both a tribute and a statement of intent," said Stefano Cantino, CEO of Gucci. "The archive is not only the guardian of our past, but a dynamic space where Gucci's identity codes intertwine and are renewed through constantly evolving interpretations. Presenting the Cruise 2026 collection here means renewing our connection with our cultural and artisanal roots, projecting them with coherence and ambition toward the future."
Nestled in the heart of Florence's Oltrarno district, Palazzo Settimanni has belonged to Gucci since 1953. Over the decades, it has housed ateliers, workshops, and showrooms. Since 2021, the historic building has also served as home to the Gucci Archive—meticulously restored to showcase the richness of its layered architecture and preserve the maison's most iconic creations.
Florence's mayor, Sara Funaro, expressed pride in hosting the event:
"We are proud to host Gucci's Cruise collection show in Florence — an extraordinary event in the city where the brand was born, and in the place that best tells its story, the archive in Palazzo Settimanni, in the charming and distinctive Oltrarno district."
"A location full of history and meaning, situated in the part of the city where the artisanal vocation is most deeply felt and present — a strong identity trait we are committed to enhancing. The bond between Gucci and Florence is deep and has never been broken despite the maison's international success."
"This will be a homecoming for a brand that, in reality, never truly left this home — a brand that has always kept its roots alive and constantly strengthened its relationship with our region, not only through important production hubs but also through iconic locations that have enriched our city's streets."
"This event also highlights Florence's central role in the fashion system, thanks to excellences like the Gucci maison. We are talking about a crucial sector for our local economy, which is going through a complex moment, but has always been rich in great expertise and capable of facing the present and future challenges."
In conjunction with the Cruise 2026 show, Gucci will reaffirm its commitment to Florence by contributing to the Estate Fiorentina 2026 cultural initiative and Parco delle Cascine's redevelopment.
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