Founded in 1881 and now run by the fourth generation, Pettinaroli has, since its inception, been considered a reference point for fans and collectors of luxury stationery, period prints and gift items. On entering this unmistakably Milanese shop in via Brera, customers can breathe in the scent of the past, immersed in a timeless, old-world atmosphere.

They can browse amongst shelves of writing paper and exquisite envelopes, historic maps and antique prints, and find numerous items associated with the sophisticated art of writing, including several of the world’s most prestigious fountain pens, leather diaries and planners, goose quill and wood pens. This unique shop also has an unmissable section dedicated to gift items: antique globes, 19th-century vintage wood printing press letters, and customizable ex-libris.

The jewel in the crown of this space is the magnificent collection of prints lining the wall at the back of the shop, visited daily by aficionados from all over the world. Today the business is run by Francesco Pettinaroli. Named after his grandfather, who founded the establishment, Francesco specializes in antique prints, a passion that has made him one of the world’s leading experts.