Go to main content
The production of the handmade paper

Craftsmanship in Valdinievole

A journey through historic arts and crafts

In the heart of Tuscany, Valedinievole preserves traditional craftsmanship, with skilled artisans who are custodians of the historic activities.

Contents
  • 1.
    Pescia and paper
  • 2.
    Shoemaking in Monsummano Terme
  • 3.
    Marsh grasses from the Fucecchio Marsh

Pescia and paper

The name of Pescia is linked to the centuries-old tradition of handmade paper, as evidenced in a document written in 1481.

The Paper Museum in Pietrabuona, one of the ten medieval Castella (country villages) in Valleriana (or Svizzera Pesciatina) protects and continues this historic art. It displays valuable documents and tools, such as the watermarks with the effigies of Napoleon and Maria Luisa d’Austria (1812) and century-old instruments for the creation of craft paper.


 

Shoemaking in Monsummano Terme

The production of made in Italy footwear
The production of made in Italy footwear

Monsummano Terme is one of the most important centres for the production of made in Italy footwear. A tradition that dates back to the early 20th century, even today, all the phases are processed inside excellent workshops, from the choice of hides and skins, to the cut, to stitching and to the final finishing touches.

High-quality leather goods are also made in the areas of Larciano, Vinci and Lamporecchio.

Marsh grasses from the Fucecchio Marsh

The use of marsh grasses
The use of marsh grasses

The marsh grasses collected in the Fucecchio Marsh have been used for centuries in the production of everyday objects such as the brushes and brooms typical of Larciano, the stuffing for chairs and demijohns in Monsummano Terme and straw-hats, an artisan tradition that has been kept alive in Lamporecchio. 

Start your discovery

Must-see places, stage-by-stage routes, events and tips for your trip
Events • 14 results
Ideas • 54 results
Itineraries • 6 results
Crafts • 23 results
Travelogs • 10 results