Tucked into the quiet countryside of Ruffano, in southern Puglia, the hamlet of Torrepaduli hosts a workshop that feels like a step back into the slow rhythm of Christmas. Here, sheets of paper become shepherds, huts and starry skies under the guidance of Prof. Francesco Parisi.
Where humble paper becomes a Christmas story
Papier-mâché is one of the most beloved crafts of the Lecce area, and nativity scenes are among its most heartfelt expressions. The workshop invites you to roll up your sleeves and discover how a simple material can take on character and expression.
It is not a demonstration to watch from a distance. You are encouraged to work with your own hands and build something you can carry home.
What happens at the worktable
Expect a relaxed, creative atmosphere where the teacher's experience guides every step. Papier-mâché is a patient art: layers are built up, shapes refined, details slowly emerge.
- The tactile pleasure of shaping soft, pliable paper into figures and scenery
- The guidance of an expert who shares the small tricks of the craft
- The chance to create a one-of-a-kind presepe instead of a mass-produced one
- A shared, convivial mood around the table, with plenty of conversation
A craft that suits every generation
There is something wonderfully levelling about modelling paper: nobody needs to be an artist to start. Families with children find it a gentle way to spend an afternoon away from screens, while couples and friends enjoy a creative pause together.
Even those who arrive alone tend to leave with new acquaintances and a sense of having made something meaningful.
Tips to get the most from your visit
Wear clothes you do not mind getting a little messy, as paper and paste have a way of travelling. Bring a little patience and curiosity too, since the best results come from taking your time.
It is also worth thinking about the scene you want to create beforehand. A rustic grotto, a village on a hill or a single expressive figure: every idea is welcome.
Combine it with the surroundings
Torrepaduli is best known for its deep-rooted traditions, including the famous August festivities in honour of San Rocco, when the hamlet fills with music and dance. Visiting in the winter season gives you a very different, quieter side of the place.
After the workshop, you can head to Lecce, whose baroque streets are full of papier-mâché shops, or drive towards Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca for a bracing walk by the sea. A coffee and a pasticciotto in a nearby town make a fitting finish.
Check the event details on the page before you go, as dates and availability can change. Come with an open mind, and you will leave with a small piece of Puglian tradition made by your own hands.