Elif Sallorenzo

Sallorenzo is the founder of Artisanal Cornucopia (Via dell’Oca, 38).

How long have you had your shop and can you describe what makes it unique? Is there a particular style or product that you think best represents your work?

The keyword is artisan-made. Artisanal Cornucopia (AC) opened in the historic center of Rome near Piazza del Popolo at the end of October 2015. It is a cornucopia that often catches the eye of the discerning traveler: a rich, eclectic mix of curated local and international artisans, hence the name. Nothing in the store is mass-produced, and everything has been handpicked for a reason. It is a “slow shop” of sorts, similar to the “slow food” movement. There is an ample selection of local Roman artisans, and the bulk of what you find at any one time at the store is “made in Italy,” but since I love the cosmopolitan feeling (perhaps being a “dipkid,” or a diplomat/ambassador’s daughter), you will always find international artisans and brands coming from places as varied as Istanbul, India, Spain, Sweden, Columbia, New York and Paris, to name a few. I also have my own line, and oftentimes I will collaborate with artisans to create items made exclusively for AC. You will always find plenty of gift ideas and accessories, including jewelry, bijoux, shoes, bags, clothing, swimwear, fragrances and home objects.

What is your favorite aspect of living in Rome?

That it is a historic city with a rich heritage. That there is a story on every corner if you research or dig a little. That is green, with plenty of parks, and the seven hills it is founded on. That it has a wonderful climate. I also love the pineta marittima, the dramatic pine trees that have the most elegant silhouette!

What are some of your favorite sights, activities, museums or neighborhoods in Rome that you would recommend to a visitor?

A few that come to mind: GNAM (Galleria Nazionale Arte Moderna), MAXXI (the building was designed by star architect Zaha Hadid), Villa Giulia (the Etruscan museum), Palazzo Pamphili (on Via del Corso, an exquisite palazzo). Take plenty of walks around the Pantheon, the Colosseum and the Ghetto, and at night in the Foro di Augusto, Fori Imperiali and Terrazza Caffarelli. Walk around Gianicolo, one of the seven hills of Rome, and go to all the parks, including Villa Borghese, Villa Pamphili and Villa Ada: all huge parks that used to be private villas belonging to prominent families. Last but not least, of course pay a visit to Artisanal Cornucopia, around the corner from the Piazza del Popolo!

What should no visitor to Rome miss seeing or doing?

See Rome from one of its divine terraces, and enjoy the view of the city at your feet. Terrazza Caffarelli by Fori Imperiali, Terrazza Borromini by Piazza Navona (good for an aperitivo), Hotel de la Ville near the Spanish Steps (also good for an aperitivo) and Palazzo Manfredi‘s bar all offer amazing views.

Do you have a favorite restaurant, shop or hotel?

I love La Matriciana (Via del Viminale, 44), Metamorfosi (Via Giovanni Antonelli, 30), Ristorante Capoboi for fish (Via Arno, 80) and Da Baffetto for pizza (both locations). I’d recommend staying at Hotel Locarno on Via della Penna; it is so different from all the other hotels.

Do you have a favorite day trip or weekend trip from Rome that you would recommend to a visitor?

Rome is wonderful for these short trips, you can even go to Tuscany for a weekend! Try Capalbio (stay at Locanda Rossa, dine at Rosso e Vino alla Dogana on the beach and at La Macchia Club in Macchiatonda). You can typically visit the beach from May through mid-October. You could also go to Santa Marinella, a 40-minute drive away, and stay at Hotel Ville Le Palme for a swim and scrumptious dining. Or visit Orvieto, where you can stay at Misia Resort or Altarocca Wine Resort for Sunday lunch and a vineyard visit.