The essence of Lecce in a jewel

Lecce’s traditional papier-mâché, known as cartapesta, reinterpreted as contemporary jewellery.

Lady Papavero cartapesta jewellery worn in Lecce, Puglia

A memory of Lecce, made to be worn

Bring a part of Lecce home with you — a Lady Papavero jewel to wear long after your time in Puglia.

Remarkably light. Specially crafted to withstand everyday wear, from makeup to unexpected rain. A reminder of its colours, its light and the moments you spent here.

Papier-Mâché Workshops in Lecce

Discover cartapesta, Lecce’s traditional papier-mâché craft, through two creative experiences at Lady Papavero’s atelier.

Hands working with papier-mâché materials during a cartapesta workshop at Lady Papavero in Lecce

Discover Cartapesta

45 min · 39€

  • Discover our contemporary approach to Lecce’s papier-mâché tradition.
  • Experience the materials and shape paper with your own hands.
  • Create a small decorative keepsake inspired by Lecce’s Baroque details.
Participants creating and decorating papier-mâché jewellery at Lady Papavero's workshop in Lecce

Create Your Own Jewellery

3 hours · €115 per person

  • Create your own ring or brooch, guided step by step in our atelier.
  • Explore Lecce’s papier-mâché heritage with us on a guided walk through the historic centre.
  • Return to the atelier for the final decorative touches and take home your handmade jewellery.
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About

Of paper & hands

Paper, glue, and the patience of hands have become my favorite tools.
This paper — torn, reshaped, strengthened, colored, and brought to life — becomes a jewel: light, durable, unique.

It is the heritage that Lecce, the capital of traditional papier-mâché, has preserved for centuries: that of artisans capable of creating wonders from almost nothing.

I continue this gesture by interpreting the ancient technique of papier-mâché in a contemporary way.

Born in Brittany and now living in Lecce, in Salento, I create jewelry that tells the story of the light and slowness of the South.

Each Lady Papavero creation is a meeting between strength and delicacy, slowness and passion — an ode to the South and to the beauty of handmade art.

Qui suis-je

Testimonials

Valentina

These earrings are stunning their bright red instantly enhances any outfit and adds a unique, captivating touch.

Giulia

Marion’s earrings are true works of art. They are striking at first glance: the red is deep, and their fall is perfect. I can’t wait to discover her next creations and their new colors!

Guide Noël

Want to discover the magic of Christmas in Puglia ?

Receive “Christmas in Puglia: Handmade Gifts & Authentic Addresses,” a guide brimming with traditions, local gems, and unique gift ideas for yourself or others.

A way to immerse yourself in the Southern winter, plan a future trip, or simply dream of Italy.

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EVERYTHING IS EMOTION
A witness passed from hand to hand, a living heritage within those who wear the jewel.