Prato Laboratory
Our story began in 1858 in Prato, when Antonio Mattei opened his bakery, where the traditional Prato Biscuits with almonds are still freshly baked every day. Better known as Cantucci or Cantuccini, these beloved treats have always been wrapped in our iconic hand-tied BLUE bags.
Come and discover a place where tradition, passion, and sweetness come to life!
The historic Antonio Mattei Biscuit Factory is located in Prato at Via Bettino Ricasoli 20/22 and has been the company's headquarters since 1858.
The Biscuit Factory is open to visitors from January to June, but only on Saturday mornings and only by reservation at the following times:
The tour with tasting includes a guided visit to the production area during the daily baking phases of our pastry chefs and lasts approximately 35/40 minutes.
Groups of up to 12 people can access the Laboratory at a time.
To reserve an exclusive visit, you must purchase 12 entries.
The tour with tasting is available in Italian and English. If you require an English-speaking guide, please request it when booking to ensure an appropriate experience.
The tasting includes products fresh out of the oven:
- Prato Bicuits with Almonds (commonly known as Cantucci or Cantuccini)
- Chocolate biscuits with dark chocolate chunks
- Pistachio and Almond Biscuits
- Biscuits with Piemonte PGI Hazelnuts
- Brutti Buoni
- Mantovana Cake
- Glacé Cherry Loaf
Admission costs € 10,00 and includes: the guided tour, tasting of traditional products, and a protective equipment (disposable kit) which must be worn to access the production area during the baking phases.
Payment is made before the start of the tour at the cash registers of the Historic Shop.
You'll receive a receipt after your tour, or an invoice if requested.
Access and Internal Use
The historic Biscuit Factory is still in use, so visitors must wear protective equipment (disposable kit) as required by law, which will be provided upon entry.
If possible, avoid wearing earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings or watches.
You will be guided among machinery in use and pastry chefs at work, so please pay close attention to the instructions provided.
Visitors must register in the visitor log, providing personal information. These details will not be disclosed and will be used only to verify visitor identity in compliance with regulations.
Concessions
Free entry for:
- People with disabilities and their caregivers
- Children under 8 years old
Discounted entry for:
- Autolinee Toscane employees or season ticket holders
Warnings
No objects may be removed from the Laboratory under any circumstances.
For recreational purposes, visitors may take photos and/or videos and freely post them on social media, using the tags @biscottimattei on Instagram or @BiscottidiPratoAntonioMatteidal1858 on Facebook. Any activity related to the use of the material for commercial purposes or industrial competition will be legally prosecuted.