Ancona purplish red and blue of guado

Enjoy a stroll in Ancona, where you will have the opportunity to discover the artisanal and commercial traditions that have made the city a significant trading hub along the Adriatic. Ancona boasted of multiple identities: a prestigious Emporium of the Adriatic, an independent Maritime Republic, but above all, it was a crossroads of diverse cultures, techniques, and various artistic styles. During the tour, you will learn about the significance of the local production of purple dye. We will explore together the various stages of this process and, amidst the stories, we will wander through the streets of the old town in search of Massimo, the master of Tintúra, and his precious botanical collection in his color workshop. This journey will acquaint you with the history of the city and the surrounding region, focusing on the production and trade of these marvelous natural colors. Now, for the most creative part! You will have the opportunity to dye a piece of Marche hemp fabric in the woad blue, using the "shibori" technique imported from the East. You can personalize a small tablecloth, unleashing your creativity through artistic binding techniques, elegant folds, wooden boards, and twine. Submerge your tablecloth in the dye bath for a few minutes. When you take it out, you will witness the magic of the color. Cherish this beautiful memory of the city of purple and woad blue.