In a unique project that is giving new life to animal hides previously discarded as waste, the hides are now being transformed into high-quality parchment, intended for use in restoring and preserving historical manuscripts held within Malta’s Notarial Archives.
DOI - Daniel Scicluna
This initiative is the result of a collaboration between the Public Abattoir and the Notarial Archives Foundation, with both teams undergoing specialised training to bring back the artisanal skill of parchment-making, a practice that was once common on the islands but has faded over time.
Aside from reducing waste, pollution, and environmental impact from the agricultural sector, it also allows local farmers to gain added value from their livestock, as the hides can now be sold for parchment production.
DOI - Kian Bugeja
Visitors recently had the chance to witness the parchment-making process up close during the third edition of Festa Laħam, that took place over the weekend at the Public Abattoir. The event attracted hundreds and celebrated local meat production in a family-friendly festival atmosphere.
Ever seen parchment made from scratch?