Paper Museum: A Journey into Amalfi's Papermaking History
Explore Amalfi's papermaking history at the Paper Museum, a journey through ancient techniques and traditions in a historic mill.
Nestled in the heart of Amalfi, the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta) offers a captivating glimpse into the town's prominent role in the history of papermaking. Amalfi's papermaking tradition dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries, with numerous paper mills flourishing in the Valle dei Mulini. The museum, established in 1969 within a historic paper mill, preserves the legacy of this ancient craft. Inside, visitors can explore the traditional methods of producing Amalfi's renowned handmade paper, known as 'bambagina'. The museum showcases the original paper presses and machinery, many of which are still in working order. Exhibits detail the entire papermaking process, from preparing the raw materials (linen, hemp, and cotton rags) to the finished product. A guided tour provides an immersive experience, explaining the historical significance of Amalfi paper and demonstrating the traditional techniques. Visitors can witness the operation of the ancient watermills powered by the Canneto stream and even try their hand at creating their own sheet of paper. The museum also features exhibits on the history of Amalfi and its cultural heritage, including ancient manuscripts and books.
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
- Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and process of Amalfi papermaking.
- Try your hand at making a sheet of paper during the interactive demonstration.
- Purchase unique stationery and paper products made from Amalfi paper in the museum's gift shop.
A brief summary to Paper Museum
- Via delle Cartiere, 23, Amalfi, Province of Salerno, 84011, IT
- +390898304561
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
The Paper Museum is located in the historic center of Amalfi, on Via delle Cartiere. From Piazza Duomo, walk north along Via Lorenzo D'Amalfi, then turn left onto Via delle Cartiere. The museum will be on your left. The walk is generally easy, though there is a slight uphill incline on Via delle Cartiere.
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Public Transport
If arriving by SITA bus, disembark at the Amalfi bus terminal. From the terminal, walk east along the harborfront to Piazza Flavio Gioia, then follow Via Lorenzo D'Amalfi north before turning left onto Via delle Cartiere. The museum will be on your left. A single SITA bus ticket within Amalfi costs around €2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Amalfi, particularly at Piazza Flavio Gioia. A taxi from the Amalfi bus terminal or ferry port to the Paper Museum will be a short ride, costing approximately €15-€20. Note that taxi fares on the Amalfi Coast can be relatively high.
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Parking
If driving, parking in Amalfi can be challenging and expensive. Several paid parking lots are available, including Luna Rossa and Berma Portuale. Luna Rossa, located just outside the town center, charges around €5 per hour during the day. Berma Portuale, near the harbor, costs €5 for the first two hours, then €3 per hour. Be aware that parking spaces are limited, especially during peak season.
Travel Experiences Inspired by This Location
Attractions Nearby to Paper Museum
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Torre Di Pogerola
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Paradise Cloister
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Antichi Sapori d'Amalfi
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Piazza Di Pogerola
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Duomo di Amalfi
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Torre dello Ziro
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Saint Andrew's Fountain Amalfi
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Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi
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Tours of Amalfi Coast
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Largo Scario
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Grotta dei Santi
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Amalfi
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Statue Dedicated to Flavio Gioia (Amalfi)
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Via Lungomare dei Cavalieri
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Pogerola
Landmarks nearby to Paper Museum
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Museo della Carta
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Ricordi di Amalfi - Dalla Carta alla Cartolina
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Amalfi Coast - Italy
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La Fontana De Cape E Ciucci
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Archdiocese - Amalfi - Cava De' Tirreni
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Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Amalfi-Cava de' Tirreni
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P.za dei Dogi
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Chiostro del Paradiso
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Grotta di Masaniello
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Santuario Santa Maria del Bando
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Diocesan Museum of Amalfi
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Cathedral of St Andrew Apostle
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Villa Torre dello Ziro
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Belvedere cimitero monumentale
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Piazza Flavio Gioia