The mill uses the waters of the Canneto River, which originally powered Amalfi’s industrial papermaking district.
Amalfi paper, or 'bambagina', was historically crafted from linen, cotton, and hemp rags rather than wood pulp.
The museum building is one of the oldest paper mills in Europe, dating back to the 1200s.
The term 'bambagina' originates from 'bambagia', the Italian word for cotton, reflecting the fabric base of the paper.
During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was a primary center for paper production in the Mediterranean, rivaling Fabriano.
The Museo della Carta is housed in a 13th-century paper mill known as the 'Cartiera Milano', situated in the Canneto Valley of Amalfi. It documents the medieval transition from parchment to rag-based paper production using historical machinery restored to working order. The museum demonstrates the 'stampata' technique, where wooden mallets powered by water wheels pulp the raw materials. Visitors can observe the manual process of sheet formation using traditional wire frames and felt presses. The museum archives preserve a collection of historical watermarks, medieval manuscripts, and early industrial tools. It serves as an educational facility dedicated to the preservation of Amalfi’s distinct 'bambagina' paper-making heritage. The site is actively maintained to show the functional mechanics of a pre-industrial paper mill.
The interior floor level featuring the restored wooden water-powered beating hammers.
Participate in the hands-on papermaking demonstration if available to better understand the pulp consistency.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the floors near the water-powered machinery can be uneven or damp.
Visit the gift shop to purchase authentic handmade Amalfi paper products, which are distinct from mass-produced stationery.
Do not attempt to walk to the museum in high-heeled shoes due to the historic stone paving and inclines.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
