Valley of the Paper Mills
The valley of the paper mills (Valle delle Cartiere, translated valley of the paper mills) is located near Toscolano-Maderno on Lake Garda. It is a narrow valley through which a torrent flows.
history
The valley was first mentioned in 1381. Even then, water power was used here to make paper out of rags. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Venice and other metropolises were supplied with goods that were precious at the time. Production was later modernized and factories were built that can still be seen today as picturesque ruins. The final decline came in the 1950s, because on the one hand the production methods changed and there was also a lack of space to expand the facilities. The very unfavorable traffic situation was another reason for the decline. One of the former factories has been restored as a museum.
trail
The valley is easy to reach from Toscolano-Maderno. In the lower part, near the museum, there is a parking lot for cars. The driveway is unsuitable for buses. The museum can be reached in around ten minutes from the car park. From there, a traffic-free hiking trail leads further into the valley. Along the way you can see several former factories with some information boards about the special features.
museum
The museum is located in the former “Polo Cartiario di Maina Inferiore” factory. Here the production and history of paper is explained in detail and clearly. There is also a small print exhibition and antique books.
Valley of the Paper Mills - view of the museum
Open-air area of the museum
Hiking trail with ruins on the edge
Web links
Coordinates: 45 ° 38 ′ 58 ″ N , 10 ° 36 ′ 15.1 ″ E