Vatican City: As 21 individuals nominated by Pope Francis prepare to be elevated to the rank of cardinal in a consistory on December 7, the historic Gamarelli Tailor Shop in Rome has found itself in the spotlight. Known for crafting official ecclesiastical vestments, Gamarelli has been diligently preparing the garments for this significant occasion. Following Pope Francis’s announcement of the new cardinals, the shop adorned its display window with traditional cardinal attire, drawing attention to its legacy. The shop is currently operated by Lorenzo and Massimiliano, descendants of the original founder.
Established in 1798 by Giovanni Antonio Gamarelli, who served as a tailor for Roman clergy, the shop has provided vestments to thousands of priests, bishops, and cardinals over the centuries. Its clientele includes popes from Pius VI to Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis, the current successor of Saint Peter, also entrusts Gamarelli with his official garments, which are ordered through his secretaries. Remarkably, the shop delivers ready-made papal vestments within a week.
On December 7, the new cardinals will don their scarlet cassocks and caps for the first time, symbolic attire they will wear during key liturgical ceremonies. During the consistory, Pope Francis will present them with the red square cap, or biretta, and a cardinal’s ring. Gamarelli has been working tirelessly to fulfill the orders placed by the incoming cardinals, acknowledging the challenge of finding skilled artisans for such specialized craftsmanship. Despite the difficulties, they remain committed to preserving this unique tradition.
A notable feature of Gamarelli's display is a white papal zucchetto, which has become a symbol of their connection to the Vatican. The shop often receives requests from visitors to exchange the Pope’s zucchetto for a new one, a practice steeped in charm and curiosity. Recognized as one of Rome’s historic establishments in 2000, Gamarelli is considered by many to be the oldest shop in the city still operated by its founder’s descendants.