In 1926, in Florence, inventor Luigi Bucci obtained an international patent that transformed mechanical locksmithing forever: the world's first electrically operated lock. Founding Costruzioni Italiane Serrature e Affini (CISA), Bucci transferred his production facilities to Faenza, creating a cornerstone of European access control, high-security europrofile cylinders, and anti-panic hardware whose mechanical patents secure buildings on five continents.
The Florentine Patent of 1926: Electromagnetism Meets the Locksmith
Until the mid-1920s, unlocking heavy entrance gates, building courtyards, and institutional doors required manual keys or complex mechanical wire pulleys that frequently jammed. In Florence in 1926, inventor Luigi Bucci designed an electromagnetic release mechanism that retracted the latch bolt upon receiving a low-voltage electrical impulse, patenting the design under the name CISA (Costruzioni Italiane Serrature e Affini).
Recognizing the industrial advantages of Romagna’s skilled metallurgical labor pool, Bucci established his permanent manufacturing works in Faenza along Via Oberdan, equipping residential buildings, banks, and post offices across Italy with modern electric strike locks.
From Faenza to Global Security: A Century of European Protection
Rebuilding rapidly after the devastation of World War II, CISA pioneered modern europrofile brass cylinders, high-security mortise locks, and smart electronic hotel management access systems. In the 1970s, CISA developed Europe’s first anti-panic push-bar hardware, setting safety standards for public schools, theaters, and hospitals.
Today, as a flagship brand of the global Allegion group, CISA’s central manufacturing and testing laboratories remain anchored in Faenza, approaching their 2026 centenary as an enduring symbol of Italian electro-mechanical ingenuity.
L'officina meccanica: precisione tecnica e dispositivi meccanici
Immagini d'archivio storico dell'Istituto Luce che testimoniano la torneria, la meccanica di precisione e la fabbricazione di congegni metallici nell'industria interbellica. (Fonte: Archivio Storico Istituto Luce Cinecittà)
Interactive 360° Street View: CISA Historic Manufacturing Plant & Security Laboratories
Historical Location: Via Oberdan 42, 48018 Faenza (RA), Italy (Coordinates: 44.2915, 11.879)
