The blacksmith is a craftsman skilled in metalworking, using the heat of fire to forge a wide range of objects, from weapons to everyday tools. This profession has ancient origins, dating back to before 1000 BC. Blacksmiths were attributed wisdom and, due to their relationship with fire, sometimes even magical powers, enjoying significant prestige among the population.
Over the centuries, this profession has been divided into numerous artisan specializations, many of which have now disappeared, such as the gunsmith, the silversmith and the boilermaker. Some occupations such as blacksmiths, farriers and goldsmiths have survived, adopting modern work techniques.
The generic meaning of the term and the large number of craftsmen dedicated to these activities has given rise to various surnames in different languages, such as the Italian Fabbri, the French Favre, the German Schmid.