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The Museum of Paper-making and Printing Activities in Subiaco: where the first book in Italy was born
The Museum of Paper-making and Printing Activities, housed in the majestic Rocca Abbaziale in Subiaco, celebrates a unique story. It was here, in 1465, that the first book printed in Italy was produced. Two German clerics brought Gutenberg's technique and set in motion a cultural revolution, also creating a typeface — the "Subiaco" — that became a landmark in typographic history.
A story of innovation
The story begins when Arnold Pannartz and Konrad Sweynheym arrived at the nearby Monastery of Santa Scolastica. Not just any location. They chose Subiaco for its cultural vitality and the presence of manuscript-writing monks. Here, with their printing press, they printed a work by Lactantius — the first dated book in Italy — using a Humanist-inspired typeface.
The museum itinerary
Today the M.A.C.S., housed in the underground rooms of the Rocca, takes us on a journey through this adventure. Not just objects are on display. There are faithful reconstructions of period machinery, and multimedia installations, including a long interactive paper scroll that reveals the milestones of written communication. A simple but effective idea.
For your visit, it is always advisable to check the latest opening times and hours on the official Rocca Abbaziale website before planning a trip.
