Campania’s traditional artisanal production has ancient origins, so much so that Charles III of Bourbon was already a lover of local arts. In some cases, these are true works of art, unique pieces made entirely by hand by skilled artisans who pass down the secrets of their craft from generation to generation.
In this regard, it is enough to mention, for example, the renowned and famous Capodimonte porcelain, splendidly decorated and masterfully crafted artefacts, or the typical artisanal production of Amalfi paper, whose production technique dates back to the Middle Ages.
Also of great value are the art of inlay, typical of the Sorrento area and dating back to the 6th century, and the creation of Neapolitan nativity scenes, a tradition documented as early as the 13th century. Thus, Campania’s artistic craftsmanship represents a true chapter in the region’s history.
Capodimonte porcelain
Capodimonte porcelain represents one of Campania’s most renowned and prestigious artistic productions: porcelain that is truly a work of art. Its name derives from the hilly area of Capodimonte in Naples, where in 1743 King Charles of Bourbon and his wife Maria Amalia of Saxony founded the Royal Factory of Capodimonte. Among the artists who created true masterpieces are Schepers, Caselli, and Gricci.
Regarding the tradition of ceramic production , Cerreto Sannita and Vietri sul Mare are the two most renowned centers in Campania for artistic ceramics, along with Calitri and Arpiano Irpino. The artisan workshops produce vases, plates, tiles, and decorations for historic buildings and churches.
Amalfi Map
Amalfi paper is another typical artisanal product whose production dates back to the Middle Ages when the inhabitants of Amalfi adopted some methods and techniques from the Arabs. Even today, the paper is made by hand in two local paper mills.
Amalfi is also home to the Paper Museum, located inside a medieval paper mill dating back to the mid-12th century. Here, you can admire ancient papermaking tools such as mortars, as well as period photographs and prints, and artifacts dedicated to paper and its artisanal production.
Jewels
Torre del Greco, in the province of Naples, is one of the most renowned centers for coral processing . In fact, this Campanian town is home to two museums dedicated to coral: one is housed within the State Art Institute and another houses the Liverino Collection.
Torre del Greco’s international fame is linked both to the craftsmanship of coral and to the production of cameos using ancient techniques.
Art of inlay
The art of inlay is another artistic practice in Campania, dating back to the 6th century, when it was practiced by the Arabs. This technique spread throughout Italy starting in the 13th century. The art of inlay, which is still practiced today in the Sorrento area, is also used to produce objects and furnishings, thus meeting the demands of today’s market.
Nightstands, coffee tables, frames, boxes, chests, and wardrobes are therefore made using the inlay technique. There are approximately one hundred artisan workshops dedicated to this type of workmanship, employing the labor of over five hundred artisans, so much so that the Unione Artigiani Intarsio Sorrentino (Sorrento Inlay Artisans Union) was founded.
Neapolitan nativity scene
Another local tradition that has become internationally renowned is also part of the local craft: the so-called Neapolitan nativity scene . As early as 1205, documents tell us that wealthy aristocrats commissioned handmade figures to decorate and embellish their nativity scenes.
Since then, the creation of nativity scene characters has continued, so much so that figurines inspired by famous figures from entertainment and sports have become part of local folklore, attracting the curiosity of tourists.
Learn more about Campania’s traditional crafts online.
- Capodimonte Museum
Website of the Capodimonte Museum with all the useful information on the museum’s collections, which includes a museum dedicated to ceramics. - Campaniaonline
- A portal dedicated to the hospitality sector in Campania, to businesses selling traditional products and artisan workshops. The site also features a calendar of events such as festivals, shows, concerts, demonstrations, and theater festivals.
- Sorrento Foundation
- The Sorrento Foundation’s website aims to promote the culture, art, and local specialties. The site features articles and interesting facts about Sorrento’s artisanal initiatives and events.
- Paper Museum
- Website of the characteristic Amalfi Paper Museum, where you can retrace the stages of artisanal papermaking.
