The paper has represented in Mele an entire population for centuries. Around the XV century in this area the Genoese paper manufacture is born. This was fostered by the presence of creeks useful for the production of energy. Indeed it was needed for the functioning of the big water wheels.
Mele became thus famous all over the world for the characteristics of its paper. It had the peculiarity of not being easily ruined by insects. That is why it became so precious for the big chancellor's offices of the European Royal Houses during the XVI – XVIII centuries.
The arrival of the steam-machines though, sets the decline of the paper industry in all the territory. Hydraulic energy was, until that moment essential for the functioning of paper mills. This was replaced with steam. As a consequence the factories could be located in more comfortable areas. After the '40s there were just 43 of these factories. Which will be all closed during the following decades.
The Paper Museum of Mele has been inaugurated in 1997. The intent is to witness the ancient know-how of the paper production art. This has indeed had a huge importance for the economical and cultural development of this territory. Headquarter of the Center is the ancient “Piccardo” paper mill. This was established in the 1756, and was definitively closed in the 1985.
The Paper Museum of Mele has also turned into a productive center. In this way it is possible to buy objects made with fine paper, following the ancient techniques.
It offers guided visits and artistic workshops for adults, schools and families. The exhibition itinerary is structured with up-to-date interactive techniques. These will lead the visitor through a real sensory journey within the paper world. You can hear again the sound of the old machines and the thunder of the water activating the gears. You will visually retrace all the productive process. This is so thanks to accurate historical reconstructions and to the presence of perfectly preserved machineries.