A Family Story Across Four Generations
Founded in 1949 in Bellagio, our family business has now reached its fourth generation : a story of passion and craftsmanship that comes to life in our handmade leather shoes and accessories, telling the essence of the Italian Artisan Tradition .
1949
Over Seven Decades of Style
After years of sacrifice, in 1949 Rolando and his beloved Rosetta fulfilled the dream they had long nurtured: opening their own shoemaking workshop.
Their business was born on the evocative Salita Serbelloni in Bellagio , one of the town’s most charming streets, soon becoming a symbol of dedication and love for the craft.
1955
The Early Years of the Business
During these years, Rolando refined his mastery by devoting himself rigorously to repairs and the creation of bespoke footwear, while Rosetta meticulously handled the stitching of the shoes. It was here that their firstborn, Cesare , grew up, learning the secrets of the trade from a very young age. Still young, he began managing the shop alongside his parents, contributing to the growth of the family business .
Collaboration, commitment, and passion have always been the family’s core values, passed down from generation to generation. At the time, customers were mainly Italian, particularly Milanese holidaymakers visiting the lake .
1955
The Early Years of the Business
During these years, Rolando refined his mastery by devoting himself rigorously to repairs and the creation of bespoke footwear, while Rosetta meticulously handled the stitching of the shoes. It was here that their firstborn, Cesare , grew up, learning the secrets of the trade from a very young age. Still young, he began managing the shop alongside his parents, contributing to the growth of the family business .
Collaboration, commitment, and passion have always been the family’s core values, passed down from generation to generation. At the time, customers were mainly Italian, particularly Milanese holidaymakers visiting the lake .
1970
An Expanding and Evolving Offering
With the rise of the second generation, Rolando’s children expanded the shop’s offering. They introduced a wider range of products, adding bags and belts , and began collaborations with artists and artisans from the Tuscan region , home to some of the world’s most important leatherworking districts.
With the aim of best meeting customers’ needs, the shop became a local benchmark for classic style.
1980
An Italian Heritage That Crosses Borders
Over the years, the shop evolved from a reference point for Italian customers into a must-visit destination for visitors from all over the world . Thanks to Bellagio’s growing international reputation, more and more people discovered the shop and the family, creating lasting relationships .
Despite an increasingly international clientele, the shop’s values remain deeply Italian. Through its products, it tells the story of a passion for “know-how” that defines the unique art of Made in Italy , recognized and appreciated worldwide.
1980
An Italian Heritage That Crosses Borders
Over the years, the shop evolved from a reference point for Italian customers into a must-visit destination for visitors from all over the world . Thanks to Bellagio’s growing international reputation, more and more people discovered the shop and the family, creating lasting relationships .
Despite an increasingly international clientele, the shop’s values remain deeply Italian. Through its products, it tells the story of a passion for “know-how” that defines the unique art of Made in Italy , recognized and appreciated worldwide.
2000
Excellence Begins with Raw Materials
The quality of our products is rooted in careful research . We personally select only the finest leathers from the best Italian tanneries . From the natural softness of deerskin to premium Tuscan vegetable-tanned leather, and even the most exclusive exotic hides, every material is chosen to enhance the unique design of our footwear and accessories.
This dedication to raw materials is what makes every Rolando creation an authentic piece of Italian craftsmanship .
2020
A Family Tradition
For four generations , the Bertolaso family has proudly preserved the tradition of its shop , located in the heart of Bellagio . From Rolando to Cesare, Bernardo, Cristiano, and on to Martino and Niccolò, their story is one of continuous dedication.
This family passion for Made in Italy has been passed down for over 75 years , bearing witness to a legacy of excellence and craftsmanship.
2020
A Family Tradition
For four generations , the Bertolaso family has proudly preserved the tradition of its shop , located in the heart of Bellagio . From Rolando to Cesare, Bernardo, Cristiano, and on to Martino and Niccolò, their story is one of continuous dedication.
This family passion for Made in Italy has been passed down for over 75 years , bearing witness to a legacy of excellence and craftsmanship.
2022
Historic Business
In 2022 , the shop was awarded the prestigious “ Historic Business ” plaque, an official recognition from the Lombardy Region reserved for businesses with a long-standing tradition and historical significance .
