Brebbia and Savinelli: The Art of Italian Pipe Making
The history of the Italian pipe manufacturer Brebbia is closely tied to the early years of Achille Savinelli. In 1947, shortly after the end of World War II, Enea Buzzi and Achille Savinelli, together with three skilled workers and financial support from uncle Bernardo, established a pipe production company. However, it soon became clear that their business visions were incompatible. In 1956, they parted ways, and Savinelli moved to his own premises in Molina di Barasso.
From MPB to the Rhombus Logo: The Development of Brebbia Pipes
The early Brebbia Pipes bore the logo “MPB” (Manifattura Pipe Brebbia), but this name gained little popularity. With the growing appeal of slow smoking competitions—initially in Italy and later internationally—the logo was changed in 1968 to the name “Brebbia”, along with the now iconic rhombus symbol.
The Brebbia team, led by Enea Buzzi, actively participated in slow smoking competitions, significantly contributing to the brand’s recognition. The company grew steadily, and in 1977, Luciano Buzzi, Enea’s son, joined the family business after completing his architecture studies.
Luciano’s Influence and Internationalization
Luciano gradually took on more responsibility and traveled across Europe to boost the export business. He discovered that pipe smokers increasingly viewed the pipe as a stylish accessory. In 1979, Luciano developed his first own series, tailored specifically for the German market, where the 9-mm activated charcoal filter was becoming increasingly popular.
The series from the 1980s were particularly successful, as they combined 9-mm drilling with a slim, elegant design—a combination that brought Brebbia significant recognition in Germany.
Today: Traditional Design and Premium Craftsmanship
In 1992, Brebbia opened a pipe museum showcasing numerous exhibits from Enea Buzzi’s private collection. The museum can be visited by appointment. Today, Brebbia’s production facilities rank among the most traditional in Italy. The brand is synonymous with unique design and excellent smoking quality. Thanks to its geographic location and optimal storage conditions for briarwood, tannins and resins are efficiently removed, ensuring a pleasant taste even from the first smoke.
