Museum of Pasta
Museum | Collecchio | Emilia-Romagna | Italy
The Museo della Pasta in Collecchio, Emilia-Romagna, is an ethnographic museum dedicated to the history, technology, and culture of Italian pasta. It is located in the Corte di Giarola, a medieval agricultural courtyard that served as a center for processing agricultural products. The museum was opened on May 10, 2014 and is part of the network of "Musei del Cibo" in the province of Parma.
The museum's exhibition is divided into ten thematic sections:
The Wheat: This section is dedicated to the different varieties of wheat, their characteristics, and cultivation methods. It presents historical agricultural tools and documents that illustrate the evolution of cultivation techniques.
The Mill: The history of grain milling is depicted through models and historical illustrations. A reconstruction of a millstone and a modern roller mill system provide insight into the development of milling technologies.
Fresh Pasta: This section shows the preparation of fresh pasta at home using household appliances and an extensive collection of "Speronelle."
Industrial Pasta: An authentically restored pasta factory from the first half of the 19th century illustrates the industrial production of pasta. Additionally, methods of artisanal pasta making from the 20th century are showcased.
Modern Technologies: This section highlights current technologies in pasta production through models and videos that explain modern production processes.
Pasta Shapes: Over 100 different pasta shapes are presented through molds and forms that demonstrate the diversity and complexity of pasta architecture.
Communication: Historical advertising materials such as posters, advertisements, and graphics are shown here, documenting the evolution of pasta advertising over the years.
Gastronomy: This section delves into the history of sieves, cookbooks, and the ideal combination of pasta shapes with sauces, highlighting regional specialties of Italy.
Pasta in Art: Finally, the representation of pasta in art is explored through paintings, stamps, and other cultural artifacts.
The museum offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the world of pasta, from its origins to its cultural significance in Italy. It is a significant center for the appreciation and understanding of this fundamental element of Italian cuisine.
