National Workshop for Handmade Paper, Ohrid
The National Workshop for Handmade Paper in Ohrid stands as a remarkable cultural heritage site, maintaining the ancient art of papermaking, a technique dating back to the 2nd century BC China. This workshop is one of only seven globally that still practices this traditional method, providing a unique link to the past through its meticulous craftsmanship. The paper produced here is made entirely by hand, involving the pressing and drying of pulp without the use of modern technology, echoing the authentic processes used for centuries.
A standout feature of the National Workshop is its replica of Johannes Gutenberg's 15th-century printing press, one of only two known replicas in the world. This press is not just a display piece but is actively used to print copies of historical documents, books, and artwork depicting local scenes, effectively bridging historical methods with contemporary appreciation.
Visitors to the workshop have the opportunity to witness these traditional techniques in action. The skilled staff conducts live demonstrations of both papermaking and printing, offering an educational and immersive experience. This educational aspect is complemented by the workshop's small museum, where handmade paper products are available for purchase, allowing visitors to take home a piece of this enduring craft.
Located in a region with a history of papermaking that dates back to the late 16th century in the Monastery of Saint Naum, the National Workshop not only revives but also celebrates the rich historical lineage of Ohrid's papermaking tradition. This workshop offers a unique chance to experience and participate in the enduring legacy of one of humanity's most significant inventions — paper.
A standout feature of the National Workshop is its replica of Johannes Gutenberg's 15th-century printing press, one of only two known replicas in the world. This press is not just a display piece but is actively used to print copies of historical documents, books, and artwork depicting local scenes, effectively bridging historical methods with contemporary appreciation.
Visitors to the workshop have the opportunity to witness these traditional techniques in action. The skilled staff conducts live demonstrations of both papermaking and printing, offering an educational and immersive experience. This educational aspect is complemented by the workshop's small museum, where handmade paper products are available for purchase, allowing visitors to take home a piece of this enduring craft.
Located in a region with a history of papermaking that dates back to the late 16th century in the Monastery of Saint Naum, the National Workshop not only revives but also celebrates the rich historical lineage of Ohrid's papermaking tradition. This workshop offers a unique chance to experience and participate in the enduring legacy of one of humanity's most significant inventions — paper.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Ohrid. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
National Workshop for Handmade Paper on Map
Sight Name: National Workshop for Handmade Paper
Sight Location: Ohrid, Macedonia (See walking tours in Ohrid)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Ohrid, Macedonia (See walking tours in Ohrid)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Ohrid, Macedonia
Create Your Own Walk in Ohrid
Creating your own self-guided walk in Ohrid is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Ohrid Introduction Walking Tour
Ohrid was called "Lychnidos", meaning "City of Light." By the late 9th century, the town was referred to as "Ohrid." This is Slavic, meaning "on a hill." With its 365 churches, it was known as "Jerusalem of the Balkans."
Legend says King Cadmus, banished from Thebes, founded the town on a hill overlooking the lucid waters of Lake Ohrid. That may... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Legend says King Cadmus, banished from Thebes, founded the town on a hill overlooking the lucid waters of Lake Ohrid. That may... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Ohrid's Historical Churches
According to the legend based on the observations of 15th-century Ottoman traveler Evlia Celebia, the town of Ohrid used to have within its boundaries 365 chapels – one for every day of the year. At some point during Medieval times, Ohrid was even dubbed Slavic Jerusalem. Today, although the number of churches is considerably smaller, the architectural and historical value of those that remain... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles