The next time you find yourself in Bella Roma, make a point of having lunch or a caffé macchiato in the Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps). Then head 3 blocks towards the Piazza del Popolo, and take a left on Via della Croce. There you will find, (not only a fabulous chocolate shop), but the most well stocked cartoleria (stationery shop) in Rome. For anyone who confesses a penchant for paper, a wonderful place to feed ones addiction is Vertecchi.
Over the last 60 years, Vertecchi has become a benchmark in the stationary industry, thanks to its impeccable assortment of products which are thoughtfully selected and displayed. Not only is it the place to go for every celebration, whether decorating for a party or looking for fabulous Christmas ornaments, but you will find sections for fine arts, technical, office supplies and a huge selection of exquisite pens, in its own sub-store. Rounding it all out are sections of gifts and leather goods, decorative packing, and all that is paper: writing, greeting and wrapping. It is a paper lover’s dream. If you are a tourist, pick up some of their own lovely blank books covered with pen and ink designs of all the historical sites of Rome, both in water color and black and white. They come in all sizes and make terrific gifts. This will definitely set you apart from the typical touristy souvenir giver when you get back home.
The business was founded by Sergio Vertecchi during the 1940s in an architecturally lovely storefront in Via della Croce, 38, right in the historical center of Rome near Piazza di Spagna. Within a few years, more space was added to adapt to an increasingly demanding clientele. One standard that was never compromised was the retail space itself. Period buildings dating back to the 15th century….with marble columns and vaulted ceilings were acquired every time another store was added. It was to be a space to reflect the distinguished products and clients.
In the beginning, sales were limited to supplies for nearby schools. Within a few years, brother Luciano, (today sole director of Vertecchi) had joined. The brand established itself in the Roman market as a leader in the stationery industry. Vertecchi was ahead of the curve, as they became fully computerized in the early 80s, to the benefit of customers who find the store fully stocked and if not, able to order anything quickly.
In 2008, it established itself on the international market via the internet.The e‐commerce channel now covers more than 16,000 products for office supplies.
That year they also introduced innovative products for retail designs and store interiors, which operates out of the shop at Vicolo del Lupo, 10 (in the historical center and upscale shopping district). The Vertecchi team installs exterior and interior decorations of public spaces, shops, restaurants, hotels and homes.
Vertecchi continues to be the choice of architects, artists, students and professors of the Academy of Fine Arts, Rome, as well as painters and designers, such as Gaetano Castelli, a famous Italian set designer and producer.
The business model, the growth of Vertecchi and quality of products was soon recognized by Italian Institutions. Luciano Vertecchi was elected as a Knight of Commerce in 2011.
They now have three stores in the city center of Rome (Via della Croce, 70 – Vicolo del Lupo, 10 – Via Belsiana, 96C) and another in the Flaminio area (Via Pietro da Cortona,18). The family business remains strong in the capable hands of Lucianno Vertecchi’s children: Giorgia, Sergio and Anna.
Their selection of Rossi1931 products is extensive. Anna says, “Our customers…both local and especially the tourists, love Rossi.” The shelves at the front of the store are full of notecards and journals and writing paper. “Anything Florentine has a great appeal, as a gift or for personal use.”
