In the heart of Pioraco, the Paper and Watermark Museum narrates one of the oldest and most characteristic artisan traditions of the Marche region. Housed in a historic building along the Potenza River, the museum bears witness to Pioraco's central role in the production of handmade paper, documented as early as the 13th century. The exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the stages of paper production, from traditional tools to watermark techniques, a distinctive feature of local production and an invaluable source for European economic and artistic history. Machinery, looms, moulds, and original artefacts allow us to understand how craftsmanship and technical ingenuity have made Pioraco a centre of excellence in the Italian paper-making tradition.
The museum is not only a conservation resource but also a place for dissemination and experimentation: demonstrations, educational activities, and workshops bring the public closer to an ancient craft that is still practised today. A visit to the Paper and Watermark Museum is a natural part of any itinerary exploring Pioraco, with its narrow streets, historic architecture and natural landscapes, offering an authentic insight into the deep connection between the village, water and human craftsmanship.