Agenda of the moment
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Limousin is brimming with talent, far beyond its famous porcelain and fire arts: from enamel to stained glass, including leather. But did you know that just a few minutes from Limoges, in the heart of the region, ancestral know-how has been passed down for centuries? Present everywhere in our daily lives, often forgotten, it nevertheless remains essential. This know-how is that of paper and printing, which passionate artisans continue to keep alive with rigor and pride, in its stronghold: Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat.
First of all… a little history!
In the 19th century, the Vienne valley, around Limoges, becomes a nerve center of the French paper industry. Benefiting from abundant hydraulic resources and the innovative use of rye straw, the region saw the proliferation of factories. This industrial dynamic made the Limousin a major player in paper production packaging, particularly for the food industry, and contributes to shaping its economic and artisanal identity.
Among the high places of this know-how, Saint-leonard-de-noblat established itself in the 18th century as a reference site. The Got mill, founded in the 1954th century, is its emblem. Closed in XNUMX and then rehabilitated, it now functions as a living museum, promoting the artisanal papermaking and traditional printing techniques.
The Got mill, a jewel of craftsmanship around paper and printing
Le Got mill, the last witness of the Limousin paper industry, perpetuates ancient know-how while innovating. Respecting the 15th century techniques, it produces artisanal papers in cotton, linen et hemp for Fine Arts and Graphic Arts, as well as custom papers for printing. The mill stands out for its original creations made from recycled and plant fibers, and its unique textures such as ““Smock” and “Cobe”.
Its typographic printing brings up to date the letterpress, allowing prints of high qualityThe association “Le Moulin du Got” ensures the transmission of these trades through workshops and educational programs, while delivering orders for demanding customers.
Dive into the heart of ancestral papermaking know-how on a guided tour
The Moulin du Got, an emblematic 15th century site in Haute-Vienne, is to be discoveredn family, in a group or alone. During this 1-hour guided tour, dive into theancestral art of papermaking, from straw paper to cardboard doll heads. The smell of ink will also immerse you in the world of printing, with references to Gutenberg, typography, and linotype.
The 2025 temporary exhibition: Ocean, Paper makes Waves
Until December 20, 2025, discover an immersive exhibition dedicated to the beauty and fragility of oceans. Through the works of ten artists engaged, this sensory experience invites you to a poetic journey and conscious, awakening attention to the need to preserve the threatened marine ecosystems.
A look back at the “Paper Monsters” 2024 exhibition
Discover Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat
Discover Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, a medieval gem in the heart of Limousin!
Stroll through its picturesque alleys and let yourself be seduced by its rich heritage, in particular its superb 11th century Romanesque collegiate church, classified as Unesco World HeritageDon't miss the tomb of Saint Leonard, a 6th-century hermit who gave his name to the city.
On the know-how side, explore the famous Carpenet porcelain factory and let yourself be tempted by the local specialty: Marzipan, a delicious golden pancake emblematic of the town.
And to make your visit even more unforgettable, why not arrive aboard a steam train period? Yes, it's possible! Remember to book your tickets now for a timeless experience!
