We operate in the area known as the Maremma, a strip of land along the Mediterranean sea extending from the river Cecina near Livorno past Monte Argentario in Tuscany, to as far as Civitavecchia in adjoining northern Lazio. Common to both parts are the mild climate and the gently swinging hills.
The Maremma is home to a rich and lush flora. The maquis shrub-land “macchia” with its scents of broom, juniper, rosemary and myrtle covers the hills close to the shore. A good example is the “Parco dell’Uccellina,” a natural park with hiking trails and beautiful panoramic views. Monte Amiata about 30 miles inland is a mile-high mountain where chestnut and oak woods prevail. Amidst this natural richness roam deers, wild boars - to name just a few - and birds of all kinds.
Despite its abundance the Maremma remains one of the less populated areas of continental Italy. The people here called “Maremmani,” see themselves as down to earth and of direct Etruscan descent. Many of them identify with the “Butteri”, cowboys, who have been grazing the cattle since 19th century in what is called “transumanza”, the yearly migration. Today only few Butteri are active, with some of them offering tourist packages including horseback excursions.
Throughout the ages, many foreigners and immigrants have brought prosperity and progress to this region. Especially during the reign of the “Granducato della Toscana” this region has undergone changes for the better both in social and structural matters. Among these the beginning and completion of a land reclaim program draining the Maremma’s marshes and turning them into arable land that stands out. Ever since agriculture has become very important - and still is: To our joy it now produces some of the best oils and wines around!
A more recent example of a persisting and “palpable” work is the “Giardino dei Tarocchi” near Capalbio on the Tuscan-Lazio border. What began with a plastic artist building a sculpture on a given plot of land eventually turned out to be a fantastic park.
For more information on the Maremma have a look at this website.