Venetian gondoliers are in short supply, and La Serenissima is looking for new recruits to instill fresh blood into a dying but emblematic profession. On the other end of “the Boot”, is Naples, where tailoring has been a revered profession for centuries. They too are looking to rescue a part of the historical tradition before exquisite craftsmanship gives way to complete automation. How are these two cities proposing to solve the dilemma?
One of the most iconic symbols of the “floating city” is the gondolier, the skilled oarsman who navigates the narrow canals with grace and precision. For centuries, the role of the gondolier has been a coveted position, passed down through generations and steeped in tradition. However, Venice is now facing a turning point as it seeks fresh blood to keep this historic profession alive.
Tourism in Venice has never been stronger, that means that the romantic gondola ride is as much in demand as ever, but in the meantime, gondoliers are getting older and retiring at a fast clip. To fill this gap, Venice has opened its doors to new applicants, inviting them to join the colorful ranks of these fabled oarsmen and women. This is not just a job; it’s a calling that combines skill, art, and an intimate knowledge of Venetian culture.
What does it take to join this ancient and honored profession? It is no simple feat. It requires more than just the ability to look dapper in the official uniform of black trousers, a striped shirt, and a straw hat. Candidates must be over 18, hold EU citizenship, possess a high school diploma, and demonstrate physical strength and good health. They must also be proficient swimmers and ready to embark on rigorous training.
The journey to becoming a gondolier involves 30 hours of classroom instruction and a hands-on training course to develop the skills needed to navigate Venice’s complex canal routes while maintaining perfect balance atop the stern of the slim, flat-bottomed watercraft—while at the same time make small talk to keep the tourists entertained. Aspiring gondoliers must also be well-versed in the art, history, and culture of Venice, speak some English and French, and complete an apprenticeship under the tutelage of a master gondolier.
For those who pass the “boaters’ bar,” the rewards are significant. A gondolier’s income can be quite rewarding, especially during the high tourist season, with potential earnings of up to €150,000 a year, depending on demand.
The call for new gondoliers is not just about filling a job vacancy; it’s about preserving a piece of living history, a chance for new blood to contribute to the legacy of Venice.
In Naples, the cradle of bespoke tailoring, the tradition is not just about stitching fabric; it’s an art form that has been passed down through generations, shaping the identity of this dynamic city.
The demand for skilled tailors in Naples is as strong as ever, with the city’s sartorias seeking fresh talent to continue their legacy, but as in Venice, while the demand for the occupation is there, the skilled craftsmen who can exercise it are dwindling.
These ateliers are more than just workplaces; they are sanctuaries where precision meets passion, and where every stitch tells a story. The tailors of Naples are custodians of a craft that defines elegance and sophistication in menswear—hallmarks of the Italian spirit–and the “Made in Italy” brand.
Sartoria Tofani, established in 1954, and the Sartoria Solito, with its roots tracing back to the 1940s, are renowned for their soft-fitted jackets that embody the essence of Neapolitan chic. Young tailors like Enzo Carfora, who honed his skills under the tutelage of the Sartoria Pirozzi, are bringing a fresh perspective to this ancient craft. These young artisans are the lifeblood that keeps the tradition alive, ensuring that the Neapolitan style continues to evolve while maintaining its soul.
The city is responding to the shortage with resilience and innovation to preserve its sartorial heritage. Some of the initiatives to attract a new generation to the craft are time-honored, like apprenticeship programs where young aspirants learn directly from experienced tailors, ensuring that the intricate skills and unique techniques are passed down. Others rely on collaborations with fashion schools and are providing formal education combined with practical experience. Once they learn the trade, many are embracing modern technology—if not in the creation of the garments, then in their marketing, using social media to showcase their artistry and attract a wider, younger audience. What’s more, there’s a burgeoning interest in tailoring among young entrepreneurs who see value in the tradition and are establishing their own ateliers. And Italy being the epicenter of fashion and style, the demand for exquisite tailoring will never decline as long as the demand for it can be fulfilled.
It may take persistence and dedication, but the effort to keep these traditions as vibrant as ever may pay off in the end.
