The Museo dell’Arte del Cappello in Ghiffa is a little gem located on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Dedicated to the artisanal tradition of hat making, this unique museum tells a fascinating part of the local history, which once saw Ghiffa as one of the main centers for the creation of high-quality hats.
A tribute to an ancient art
The museum was created to celebrate the ancient tradition of hat making, an activity that has characterized the economic and social life of Ghiffa since the 19th century. Here, handcrafted hats were produced and exported all over the world, a symbol of elegance and quality. By visiting the museum, you will have the opportunity to take a dive into the past and discover the secrets of this ancient art.
What to see at the Museo dell’Arte del Cappello
The museum offers a rich and fascinating exhibition itinerary, which combines history, art and craftsmanship:
1. Historic machinery: Discover the ancient machinery used in the production of hats, from the initial stages of felt processing to the creation of the finished product.
2. Hat Exhibition: Admire a collection of historic hats, which tell the story of the evolution of style and fashion over the years.
3. Photographs and Documents: Vintage images and historic documents offer an insight into the daily lives of artisans and the economic importance of this activity for Ghiffa.
4. Videos and Demonstrations: During the visit, you can watch videos that illustrate the production process and, on some special occasions, watch live demonstrations.
Why visit the museum
The Museo dell’Arte del Cappello is not only a place dedicated to fashion or craftsmanship enthusiasts, but also a cultural experience that allows you to understand how human creativity and ingenuity have shaped the economic history of a community. It is a perfect visit for those who love to discover the authentic and lesser-known side of Lake Maggiore.
How to reach the Museo dell’Arte del Cappello
The museum is located in Ghiffa, easily accessible:
• By car: From Cannobio, the journey takes about 25 minutes (20 km) along the SS34. Free parking is available nearby.
• By boat and bus: You can take a boat to Verbania and then continue with a local bus to Ghiffa.
Useful information
• Opening hours: The museum is generally open on weekends and during the tourist season. It is advisable to check the opening hours on the official website or at the Ghiffa tourist office.
• Cost: Admission is free, but you can leave a voluntary offering to support the museum.
• Duration of the visit: The visit takes about 1 hour.
Tips for the visit
• Combine the visit to the museum with a walk to the nearby Sacro Monte di Ghiffa, a UNESCO site surrounded by nature.
• If you are passionate about fashion, take note of the details and techniques on display, which reveal the excellence of Italian craftsmanship.
An authentic and educational experience
Visiting the Museo dell’Arte del Cappello in Ghiffa means discovering an important part of local history and Italian manufacturing art. Among ancient instruments, elegant hats and tales of artisanal traditions, this experience will make you appreciate even more the value of Made in Italy. It is a small museum that holds great stories, perfect for enriching your trip to Lake Maggiore.