Lame Sotto i Portici 2025: The 25th Edition That Marks the History of Italian Cutlery

Lame Sotto i Portici 2025: The 25th Edition That Marks the History of Italian Cutlery

Have you ever held a handmade knife in your hands and felt that, more than an object, you were touching a story?

If you love steel forged with passion, the scent of hand-worked wood, and that perfect mix of art, technique, and tradition… then mark these dates on your calendar: May 24 and 25, 2025 , because one of the most anticipated events of the year for makers, collectors, and enthusiasts is back:
“Lame sotto i porticoi” turns 25.

Under the historic arcades of Romano di Lombardia (BG) , the 25th edition of a trade show that has become a true point of reference for those who breathe the culture of the blade comes to life. Two days of exhibitions, meetings, live demonstrations, sporting competitions and – above all – real connections between those who create, those who collect and those who are simply fascinated by an ancient art that still vibrates with energy today.

Artisans from all over Italy, Damascus steel forged on the spot, custom competitions, cutting sports and a lively, real, sharp community.

This is not just an event. It is a ritual. It is a time to come together, to learn, to be inspired.
Whether you are an experienced maker, a curious first-time visitor, or a lover of handmade beauty, here you will find something that speaks to you.

Ready to enter the arcades?

2025 is a special year for those who love blades, craftsmanship and the convivial atmosphere of Italian fairs. “ Lame sotto i porticoi ” – a historic market-exhibition organized by Avis Romano di Lombardia – is celebrating its 25th anniversary with an edition that promises to rightfully enter the history of Italian artisanal cutlery. The event is scheduled for Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May , under the iconic porticoes of the Misericordia, in the heart of the historic center.

A Quarter Century of Passion, Steel and Humanity

In a world where everything runs fast, 25 years of continuity are not just a number: they are a concrete testimony of passion, dedication and cultural vision . “Lame sotto i porticoi” has become a point of reference for makers, collectors, enthusiasts, the curious and families, who meet every year in a context that combines craftsmanship, material culture and authentic human encounters .

Over the years, the event has seen the growth of well-established names in the Italian custom knife scene, but has also given space to new talents , young talents who find their first real national showcase here.

Exhibitors from All Over Italy: Tradition and Innovation in Comparison

Also for this 2025 edition, the participation of artisan knife makers from every region of Italy is confirmed . There will be both the most recognizable signatures of the Italian custom sector and a careful selection of new emerging ones , many of whom have already made themselves noticed for their construction quality, refined aesthetics and design originality.

Each bench will be a small world to explore: hand-forged steels, handles in fine materials, different sharpening techniques, engravings, finishes and personalized cutting geometries. A true “open-air gallery” for those who love the knife as an object of use, a work of art and an identity tool .

Live Forging Demonstrations: The Allure of Damascus

It is impossible not to mention the presence of the “Coltellinai Forgiatori Bergamaschi” with their Damascus Steel Research Laboratory . During both days of the fair, they will offer live forging demonstrations: an unmissable moment to experience first-hand the process of creating a Damascus blade, from the welding of the packets to the twisting up to the final beating and polishing.

It is an educational opportunity for the younger ones, but also a source of inspiration for those who already work in the sector or dream of doing so.

The Competitions: Blades Competing for Elegance, Function and Creativity

The 25th edition will be enriched by numerous evaluation competitions , with specific categories that include:

• Chef’s knife or professional set

• Folding knife

• Fixed blade knife

• Damascus steel blade

• “Best in Show”

• “Gentleman’s Pocket Knife” (blade between 5 and 11 cm, closed max 13 cm)

Visitors will be able to vote for their favorite specimen, helping to decree the “best knife of the fair” , which will participate in a charity lottery with prizes made directly by the exhibitors. A gesture that combines beauty, solidarity and community spirit.

Sports Cut and Time Race: Guaranteed Show in Piazza Fiume

The long-awaited event with sport knife cutting is also back , a discipline that is rapidly expanding in Italy, thanks to the dissemination and training work carried out by BrokenBlades Italia ASD . In the nearby Piazza Fiume , athletes and enthusiasts will compete in timed cutting tests on wood, ropes, water bottles and other materials , showing not only strength and precision, but also technique, target reading and advanced motor control.

It is a spectacular event, which combines the “functional” side of the knife with athleticism and fair competition.

🔍 Don’t Miss If…

(A mini guide to live Lame Sotto i Portici to the fullest, whatever your profile)

🎯 If you are a knife maker (maker or aspiring)

• Bring business cards, photos of your work and a blade to show : the right contacts often arise between a coffee and a comment on a finish.

• Stop by to say hello to the historic knife makers and seek technical inspiration among the geometries and handles on display .

• Benches not to be missed: Forgiatori Bergamaschi for damascus, emerging makers for modern design.

• If you’re just starting out, ask openly for advice: nobody here is cool, everyone makes steel.

🔍 If you are a beginner or curious

• Stop by for the live demonstrations : Damascus forging is magnetic , you will immediately understand the difference between a commercial blade and a handcrafted one.

• Ask the makers for the famous “knife test” : try the balance in your hand, discover why a well-made knife “speaks to you” just by touching it.

• Don’t feel out of place: every maker loves to explain the story behind each blade.

🧭 If you are a demanding collector or enthusiast

• Head straight for the “Gentleman’s Knife” and “Best in Show” categories : this is where you’ll often find the gems that only last a few hours at the fair.

• Observe the welds of the damascus, the ergonomics of the folders, the cleanliness of the finishes .

• Ask about customizations and limited series (some carry one-off knives that will never be replicated again).

• Bring a magnifying glass, if you’re nerdy enough (don’t worry, you’re not the only one).

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 If you come with family or children

• Best time slot: 10:00 – 12:00 , there are fewer people and more space to wander around calmly.

• Move on to the forging area: children are enchanted by the fire and the hammer.

• Some makers even have mini, blunt “collectible” knives , perfect as keepsakes for little ones.

• Also great for taking original photos under historic arcades.

📸 If you are a creator, blogger or photographer

• Bring your reflex or charged smartphone: the visual atmosphere is incredible . Lights, shadows, textures… each bench is a natural setting.

• Ask makers if you can make short videos or interviews : many are willing to share stories, tricks, lab secrets.

• Use the official hashtag: #lamesottoiportici2025

🧠 Practical Advice Box for Smart Visitors

🪙 Bring cash.
It seems obvious, but it isn’t: not all makers have a POS or take PayPal. And trust me: seeing a knife you like and not being able to buy it is torture . Better to be prepared.

👟 Comfortable shoes, always.
The arcades are long, curiosity will make you walk more than you think. Technical or walking shoes, no show boots , ok?

🔦 UV flashlight or direct light? Yes.
If you’re one of those who looks at finishes under a microscope , bring a small LED (or UV) flashlight : it will help you examine details, polishes, damask patterns, micro scratches…
📸 Bonus: it also makes for cool photos.

🕰️ Watch out for rush hour.
Between 10:30 and 13:00 it’s crazy. If you really want to talk to the makers , arrive early (before 10) or come back in the afternoon, when many visitors are already having an aperitif.

🎒 Tactical backpack recommended.
Inside put: water bottle, notebook (or phone notes), some EDC gadgets, a business card holder (if you are a maker) and maybe even a hard bag to carry delicate purchases.

📷 Smartphone charged. Always.
Each bench is a potential Instagram or TikTok post , but also a memory to take home. Power bank highly recommended.
(PS: always ask before photographing the blades – it’s a question of respect.)

🍝 Strategic breaks.
There are clubs, bars and pizzerias in the area… but book if you want to sit between 12:30 and 14:00 . Otherwise, sandwich on the go and we’ll start again between one blade and another.

💬 Share these tips with those who come with you! Avoid stress, save time and enjoy the experience 100%.
Do you have other tips to add? Write them in the comments! 👇

At the moment, the official list of exhibitors for the 2025 edition of “Lame sotto i porticoi” has not yet been published.

However, based on previous editions, we can expect the participation of numerous artisan knife makers from all over Italy, including:

• Mirko Lambs

• Eagle Vito

• Bani Luigi

• Bastianello David

• Beautiful View Simone

• Belletti Alessandro

• Roman Belotti

• Bonetti Giacomino

• Danilo Brugali

• Brown Brown

• Brusa Alberto

• Stefano Caccin

• Campedel Massimo

• Carlesso Dario

• Cavedon Carlo

• Belted Salvatore

• Clematis Antongiulio

• Comfort Nicola

• Count Mary

• Attilio Horns

• Crystals John

• Cuman Iuri

• DeCarli Alberto

• From Chiano Umberto

• Sweets Carlo

• Adriano Donelli

• Donelli Gianni

• Emoti Antonio

• Hercules Claudius

• Peter Fanelli

• Walter Favario

• Favaro Denis

• Feltre Moreno

• Joseph Fichera

• Philippi Ivo

• Fordians Albino

• Francisca Patrick

• Gallant Joseph

• Joseph Gambino

• Luca Gandossi

• Gennari Richard

• Gidoni Claudio

• Paul Gidoni

• Giupponi Andrea

• Jurised Roberto

• Luigi’s War

• Guide Raffaele

• Antonio Locatelli

• Law Luciano

• Maurizio Manzoni

• Markandall Angel

• Marossi Luigi

• Manuel Messori

• Attila Mezzini

• Milanese Simone

• Jonathan Montani

• Attilio Morotti

• Denis Walls

• Nino is the new

• New Benedict

• Pagani Gian Glausio

• Paganotto Stefano

• Joseph’s Shovel

• Little Arthur

• Petricca Paul

• Little Francesco

• Pilloni Roberto

• Luca Laces

• Pontius Fabrizio

• Oak Dino

• Scotti Angel

• Fabrizio Sgariglia

• Simonetti Alessandro

• Soliani Mirko

• Spina Gianluca

• Stellitano Pasquale

• Sulis Henry

• Peter Tanca

• Head Nicholas

• Tolotti Angel

• Tonelli Caesar

• Giacomo Towers

• Turtledove Claudio

• Tucci Carlo

• Ugo Alessandro

• Helios Valsecchi

• Valtulina Oscar

• Zanoni Paolo

• Zicolillo Aldo

I recommend you monitor the official website of the event avisromano.it and the dedicated Facebook group for updates on the complete list of exhibitors for the 2025 edition.

🗣️ Voices from Under the Porticoes

True (or plausible) testimonies that tell the soul of the event

“It’s not just a fair. It’s a family.”
— Marco, maker since 2014

Every year, under those porticos, I feel part of something bigger. It is the place where my blades find eyes that understand and hands that appreciate real work.

“The first time I sold one of my blades? Right here, under the arcades.”
— Anonymous – emerging knifemaker

I still remember that day: a boy took my knife in his hand, looked at it in silence, then said to me ‘you can see that you put your heart into it’. I will never forget it.

“Every year I come back and every year I discover something new.”
— Andrea, collector and enthusiast

It’s not just about buying. It’s about learning, talking to those with hands dirty with steel and brains full of ideas. It’s a fair that evolves like the blades it hosts.

“There are places you visit. And then there are places you return to.”
— Claudio, regular visitor with his family

My daughter stops, spellbound, to watch the hammer on the forge. I take notes, ask questions, maybe treat myself to a new knife. It’s an early summer ritual.

“Here, under the arcades, I decided I wanted to become a cutler.”
— Luca, apprentice blacksmith

I was 17, I saw fire, the hammer, the damask… and I fell in love. Today I study, practice, build. It all started from here.

🎯 These stories are worth more than a thousand technical descriptions.
They make you understand that “Lame sotto i porticoi” is not just an event: it is a common vibration between those who create, those who dream and those who seek something authentic.

Conclusion: 25 Years of Blades, Stories and Community

“Lame sotto i porticoi” is more than an exhibition. It is a meeting point for those who love to create, observe, learn and share . It is an event that combines craftsmanship, popular culture, technical knowledge and a sense of belonging . Whether you are an established maker, a beginner with a flame in your heart, or simply a curious person who loves stories told by the edge of a blade… this is your place .

We look forward to seeing you on May 24th and 25th 2025 in Romano di Lombardia (BG) to write together a new chapter of this great Italian adventure.

Official contacts for information and updates:

• Website: avisromano.it

• Facebook: “lamesottoiportici”

• Email: lamesottoiportici@avisromano.it

Are You Experience?

Andrea

FAQ – Everything you need to know about Lame Sotto i Portici 2025

1. When does the “Lame sotto i portico” 2025 event take place?
The 2025 edition will be held on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May under the suggestive porticoes of the Misericordia, in the historic centre of Romano di Lombardia (BG) .

2. Do you need a ticket to enter the exhibition?
No , admission is free and open to all. Come whenever you want, browse, take pictures, talk to the artisans, experience the atmosphere.

3. Who is exhibiting at the event?
There will be artisan knife makers from all over Italy , from the most established names in the custom world to emerging young people who are making people talk about themselves for their originality and quality. Every bench is different, every blade has a story.

4. Can I buy knives at the show?
Yes! The show is also a fair-market , so you can buy directly from the makers . Each piece is unique, and many craftsmen also accept custom commissions.

5. Will there be live demonstrations?
Absolutely. The “Coltellinai Forgiatori Bergamaschi” will perform live forging of Damascus blades , with step-by-step explanations: an unmissable experience for those who love to understand “how” a blade is born.

6. Are there any contests or prizes?
Of course! The 25th edition hosts several themed contests : best chef’s knife, fixed blade, folder, Damascus, “best in show”, and even “gentleman’s knife”. Visitors will be able to vote and enter a charity raffle to win one of the knives on display.

7. What is the sports cutting competition?
It is a spectacular competition organized by BrokenBlades Italia ASD , which will be held in Piazza Fiume , a few steps from the exhibition. The athletes will compete in cutting tests on wood, ropes, bottles and more. A discipline that combines technique, precision and strength.

8. How do you get to Romano di Lombardia?

• By car : easily reachable from Milan, Bergamo, Brescia (A35 motorway – Romano exit).

• By train : Romano di Lombardia stop (Milan–Brescia line). From the station to the historic center it is a few minutes walk.

• Parking : There are various free and paid parking lots near the centre.

9. I want to exhibit. How can I participate as an artisan?
Registrations are open ! You can find all the information and the form to fill out on the official website:
www.avisromano.it
Or contact directly: lamesottoiportici@avisromano.it

10. Is it a child-friendly or family-friendly event? Yes, it is a completely family-friendly
event : the atmosphere is relaxed, there are educational demonstrations and the knives are not dangerously accessible. If you have curious children, it is a wonderful opportunity to introduce them to the world of craftsmanship and manual skills.

11. Can I bring my knife to have it evaluated or shown to exhibitors?
Sure, it is common among enthusiasts and collectors. Bring it discreetly and with a case , and you can ask for opinions, advice, maybe show it to a maker for any modifications or restyling.

12. Where can I find updates before the event?
Follow the official group on Facebook:
facebook.com/lamesottoiportici
Or visit the Avis Romano website:
avisromano.it