Let’s continue to the Amalfi Paper Museum, a place that preserves and tells the story of one of the city’s oldest and most valuable traditions: handmade paper production.

Located in one of the few remaining medieval paper mills, dating back to the 13th century, the museum offers a fascinating dive into the past, when Amalfi was an important center for producing the renowned “bambagina” paper. Amalfi paper, so-called because it was made from cotton and linen fibers, was famous throughout the Mediterranean for its exceptional quality and durability. Thanks to the abundance of pure water from local streams and the skill of the artisans, Amalfi became one of Europe’s leading paper producers.

During our tour, you will explore various rooms in the museum, where you’ll find the original machinery used for paper production. Among these are the soaking vats, where vegetable fibers were immersed and reduced to pulp, and the hand frames used to press and shape the pulp into sheets. It’s remarkable to think that many of these tools are still functioning and used in live demonstrations you can observe during your visit. Thanks to these demonstrations, you’ll have the opportunity to witness how each sheet of paper was produced and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication required for this process.

The museum doesn’t just showcase the technique of paper production, but it also allows you to discover the history and significance of this tradition for the city of Amalfi. In the section dedicated to historical documents, you’ll find manuscripts, notarial deeds, and letters written on Amalfi paper that date back centuries. These documents remind us of the crucial role that Amalfi paper played in preserving the knowledge and culture of the time, as well as its commercial and artistic importance.

One of the most fascinating parts of the tour is the chance to touch samples of modern paper and compare them with the handmade paper. You will immediately notice the difference: Amalfi paper is thicker, more durable, yet also elegant in its simplicity. Each sheet is unique, the result of a manual process that makes every piece different from the others.

Additionally, the Amalfi Paper Museum tells the story of the ancient paper mills of Amalfi, many of which were located along the Canneto River, the main source of water needed for the production process. This network of paper mills was a significant economic resource for the Republic of Amalfi in the Middle Ages when the city was a vital hub for maritime trade in the Mediterranean.

At the museum, you will also have the opportunity to purchase handmade paper sheets, unique souvenirs that encapsulate centuries of tradition and craftsmanship. Today, the tradition of handmade paper production is carried on by only a few artisans, who keep this ancient craft alive.

Our tour will continue with more discoveries in Amalfi, but the Paper Museum will undoubtedly leave you with an unforgettable memory of the city’s rich artisanal and cultural heritage.