Sustainable agriculture is an essential practice that harmonizes the needs of plants, animals, and humans while ensuring long-term ecological balance and resource conservation. By adopting environmentally friendly techniques and promoting ethical practices, sustainable agriculture aims to provide food security, protect biodiversity, conserve natural resources, and support thriving rural communities. This article delves into different facets of sustainable agriculture, including soil management and crop production practices, as well as water conservation, biodiversity conservation, animal welfare, social and economic considerations, technology and innovation, and policy and advocacy activities.

Soil Management and Conservation

The foundation of agriculture lies in the soil, with its vitality and well-being being paramount for sustained food production. Sustainable agricultural practices prioritize techniques like crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic farming methods to enhance soil quality, mitigate erosion, and facilitate nutrient cycling. By avoiding excessive chemical inputs and promoting organic matter accumulation, farmers can preserve soil health, reduce the risk of pollution, and maintain productive farmland for future generations.

Reduced-Risk Pesticides and Least-Toxic Alternatives  

Before, there have been numerous cases highlighting the negative effects of traditional chemical pesticides. Roundup, a widely used herbicide with glyphosate as its primary ingredient, has received substantial investigation due to its probable carcinogenic qualities. Numerous studies and legal proceedings have brought forth significant concerns regarding the development of different cancer types resulting from exposure to Roundup, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, pediatric brain cancer, and several other illnesses.

To address the issues, the adoption of Least-Toxic Alternatives and Reduced-Risk Pesticides has become a pressing need. This approach prioritizes pest management methods with minimal adverse effects on human health and the environment. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques have gained prominence in this regard, emphasizing the reduction of chemical pesticide reliance and the promotion of sustainable practices. By implementing IPM and other least-toxic alternatives, individuals in agriculture, horticulture, and pest control can effectively manage pests while mitigating the potential negative impacts on soil health, biodiversity, and human health. These approaches strive to strike a balance between effective pest control and the preservation of environmental and human well-being.

Sustainable Crop Production Techniques

Sustainable agriculture encourages the use of diverse and resilient crop production techniques to ensure long-term productivity. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies help reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides by promoting natural pest control methods, such as beneficial insects and crop rotation. Agroforestry, a practice that combines trees with agricultural crops, enhances biodiversity, reduces water runoff, and sequesters carbon dioxide. Precision agriculture, utilizing advanced technologies like sensors and drones, enables farmers to optimize resource use and reduce waste.

Water Conservation and Management

Water scarcity is a pressing global issue, making efficient water management crucial for sustainable agriculture. Implementing techniques like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and precision irrigation can significantly reduce water usage and increase crop water-use efficiency. Sustainable agriculture also promotes the preservation and restoration of wetlands, rivers, and other natural water sources, ensuring water availability for ecosystems and future agricultural needs.

Biodiversity Conservation

Preserving biodiversity plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable agriculture by fostering natural pest control, pollination, and ecosystem resilience. Farmers can encourage biodiversity by establishing wildlife habitats, creating buffer zones, and implementing agroecological practices. Farmers may enhance the presence of beneficial insects, birds, and other animals on their fields by protecting and restoring native ecosystems. These organisms are critical to the health and balance of the ecosystem.

Animal Welfare and Livestock Management

Sustainable agriculture places a strong emphasis on animal welfare and ethical livestock management. It promotes practices that ensure animals are treated with respect, have access to adequate space, and appropriate nutrition, and are raised in a stress-free environment. Pasture-based systems, rotational grazing, and humane handling practices are some examples of sustainable livestock management techniques that prioritize animal welfare while minimizing environmental impact.

Social and Economic Considerations

Sustainable agriculture recognizes the importance of supporting rural communities, promoting fair trade, and fostering social equity. It promotes a deeper connection between local farmers and consumers by emphasizing the significance of local food systems, farm-to-table initiatives, and community-supported agriculture (CSA). Sustainable agriculture contributes to healthy rural economies and societal well-being by paying fair salaries, supporting rural lives, and offering opportunities for small-scale farmers.

Technology and Innovation in Sustainable Agriculture

Advancements in technology and innovation play a significant role in terms of sustainable agriculture. From precision agriculture tools and remote sensing to genetic engineering and biotechnology, these innovations offer opportunities for more efficient resource management, reduced environmental impact, and increased productivity. Nonetheless, it is crucial to exercise prudent judgment when utilizing such technologies, considering both the potential hazards and ethical ramifications.

Policy and Advocacy for Sustainable Agriculture

To create a supportive environment for sustainable agriculture, policies, and advocacy efforts are essential. The notion of collaboration between international organizations, governments, and civil society is essential in constructing and implementing policies that promote the widespread adoption of sustainable practices. Additionally, these entities can provide financial assistance and facilitate research and education initiatives to further advance this field. The crucial role of advocacy cannot be overstated as it acts as a catalyst for raising awareness about the numerous benefits associated with sustainable agriculture. Moreover, advocacy serves as a powerful tool for influencing public opinion and propelling policy changes at various levels, be it local, regional, or global.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sustainable agriculture practices offer a viable path toward a more resilient and equitable food system. We can minimize the adverse effects of traditional farming, safeguard our natural resources, and even secure a sustainable future for generations to come by placing importance on the requirements of animals, plants, and humans. We can alter our agricultural systems and achieve a peaceful balance that benefits both human well-being and the health of our planet if we work together.

Foto di no one cares su Unsplash

The article Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Balancing the Needs of Plants, Animals, and Humans was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The journey to discover a place, a culture, a corner of the world undoubtedly also goes through food. Every dish we taste tells us a story, an identity, a relationship with nature.

If you too believe that gastronomic experiences are a key element of travel and always seek information in advance about local products and traditional recipes, we have a destination to recommend that you absolutely cannot miss.

A little-known and incredibly authentic corner of Piedmont offers an interesting cuisine and a wide variety of renowned local products: the Valle Maira.

Impressive mountains, endless forests, and vast meadows give life to a wild and enchanting land that continues to maintain timeless charm and unspoiled nature. The villages of Valle Maira live every day the most authentic mountain experience, perhaps different from what we know, more rugged but at the same time welcoming and poignant.

The ancient Occitan gastronomic tradition

In Valle Maira, ancient Occitan traditions meet Piedmontese traditions. Even in the kitchen. The result of this union is something to taste and discover! Each dish reflects the people’s connection with nature and the mountains: the flavors are simple and genuine, strongly linked to what the land produces season after season.

The trade of anchovies, whose origins are still unknown, has enriched and influenced the local cuisine. There’s Bagna Cauda, which accompanies seasonal vegetables, but there are also numerous other recipes that make this fish an important protagonist, celebrated during the feast of San Marcelin and the Anchovy Fair in Macra and Dronero. Another absolute star of the mountain cuisine of Valle Maira is the potato. It is used, for example, to prepare ravioles, dumplings made of potatoes, flour, and eggs, seasoned with butter and cream, or the rich one-pot dish called Mato. Another typical Occitan recipe no traveler should miss is gnocchi al Castelmagno.

Among the local produce, we also mention honey, cheeses, and the particular gogiu pear.

A holiday in Valle Maira

Valle Maira captivates us right from the start with its flavors, but not only that. It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the mountain in an authentic way and for all nature and outdoor activities enthusiasts. Located among the Cozie Alps, the valley offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of sports activities for all levels.

Valle Maira offers hikers an extensive network of trails that wind through forests, alpine meadows, and small mountain villages. You can choose from hikes of varying difficulty, from a tranquil walk along flat trails to the more challenging ascent of alpine peaks. Cycling enthusiasts will find numerous routes in Valle Maira suitable for both mountain biking and road cycling. There are also climbing walls, opportunities for water sports, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing itineraries.

Where to stay sustainably and green in the villages of Valle Maira

Valle Maira consists of 13 municipalities and numerous small villages where life flows slowly and in harmony with the surrounding environment. To fully experience this atmosphere and the mountain way of life, there is no better place than Borgata Sagna Rotonda.

It is a small mountain village restored to its ancient splendor by Giovanni and Teresina, who renovated what remained while considering the historical value of the buildings and using modern construction and plant techniques, as well as alternative and environmentally friendly energy sources. Now Sagna Rotonda offers 10 cozy and comfortable housing units, perfect for a zero-impact stay in Valle Maira.

Inside an old stone-vaulted stable, a small wellness area has been created, exclusively reserved for an hour for those who make a reservation. After a day exploring the flavors and landscapes of this lesser-known corner of Piedmont, you can enjoy the warmth of a Finnish sauna experience, interspersed with immersion in a tub filled with mountain spring water.

To continue exploring the unique flavors of Valle Maira, in Sagna Rotonda you will also find a small shop selling the best local products: honey, jams, flours, biscuits, as well as excellent wines, liqueurs, and craft beers. In the organic garden of Sagna Rotonda, you can freely pick seasonal vegetables, and in a nearby farm you can buy excellent cheeses, yogurt, and fresh milk, enjoying genuine products and at the same time supporting the local economy.

Are you ready to experience a holiday among the unique flavors and landscapes of the Maira Valley?

The article Valle Maira, a treasure to be discovered between cuisine and landscapes was originally posted on Ecobnb.

If you are a nature lover and enjoy outdoor experiences without wanting to miss out on culture, the province of Parma offers a variety of green itineraries and experiences that will leave you breathless. Let’s explore together 10 routes to discover this fascinating region’s natural and cultural beauty.

Walking Tour in the Historic Center of Parma

Let’s begin our journey in the heart of Parma by exploring its enchanting historic center on foot. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and discover architectural gems such as the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Teatro Regio. You will find yourself immersed in a unique and refined atmosphere, typical of this city rich in history and culture.

Green Parma: Walking Along the River from Parco Ducale to the Cittadella

Parma holds a small river in its heart: take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover this true gem of nature. Follow the course of the Parma River and walk along the path that connects the picturesque Parco Ducale to the majestic Cittadella. Along the way, enjoy the panoramic view, relax in the tranquility of the surrounding green spaces, and forget that you are right in the city center!

Cycling in the Boschi di Carrega Park

Grab your bicycle and head to the Boschi di Carrega Park, a true natural oasis. This protected reserve offers a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, green meadows, and cultivated fields crossed by numerous streams and small artificial ponds. Pedaling along the quiet paths of this Ducal Woods, you can also admire some precious architectural gems, such as the Casino de’ Boschi. Along the route, you may spot different species of birds, wildlife, and rare plants. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a beginner, the Boschi di Carrega Park is the ideal place to explore the uncontaminated beauty of the Parma countryside.

The Labyrinth of Masone

Immersed in the countryside of Fontanellato, less than half an hour from Parma, you will find the Labyrinth of Masone, the largest bamboo maze in the world! Getting lost in the corridors of intense green is an adventurous and fascinating experience. Discover hidden corners, secret paths, and surprises along the way. You can choose to follow the scattered signs or let your instincts guide you – fun and amazement are guaranteed!

The Hills of Parma and Torrechiara Castle

Fifteen minutes south of the elegant Emilian city awaits the enchanting Torrechiara Castle, a charming 15th-century residence. You can also reach it with a simple bike itinerary that combines history and breathtaking landscapes. It is undoubtedly the most spectacular castle in the province of Parma, internally well-preserved and rich in atmosphere. The local legends tell about ghosts. Will you see it?

Its name probably derives from the verb “torchiare,” which means to press and squeeze something in a press. In fact, the area is rich in vineyards, and the fortress was the place where wine was produced and stored.

The Reggia di Colorno, near Parma

Head towards the majestic Reggia di Colorno, an architectural gem immersed in the Parma countryside. This country residence of the Dukes of Parma will welcome you with its sumptuous interiors and vast gardens. Admire the frescoed halls, antique furniture, and splendid paintings that tell the story of this fascinating place. Take a stroll through the lush Italian gardens, framed by elegant fountains and suggestive tree–lined paths. The Reggia di Colorno will transport you to an era of splendor and allow you to immerse yourself in the art and history of this fascinating noble residence, which has been connected to some of the most important European and Italian dynasties (from the Farnese to the Bourbons to the Habsburgs).

Fontanellato and the Rocca Sanvitale

Embark on a journey back in time in the picturesque village of Fontanellato, where the Rocca Sanvitale dominates the horizon. This medieval fortress, with its imposing walls and majestic water-filled moat, houses a treasure trove of history and culture. Cross the ancient drawbridge and discover the fascinating interiors of the castle, where you will find a captivating labyrinth of rooms and courtyards. Admire the frescoes and the room decorated with frescoes by Parmigianino in 1524 depicting the myth of Diana and Actaeon. They will leave you breathless! After visiting the Rocca, located in the heart of the village, explore its picturesque alleys, arcades, and traditional artisan shops.

Art and Nature at the Magnani Rocca Foundation

If you are an art enthusiast, don’t miss the Magnani Rocca Foundation. Located in an elegant villa surrounded by a large park, this foundation houses the extraordinary collection of Luigi Magnani, featuring works by Goya, Dürer, Titian, Burri, Rubens, Canova, Monet, Morandi, and others.

The Barboj of Rivalta

For a unique experience, immerse yourself in the rural atmosphere of the Parma countryside and visit the Barboj of Rivalta. The park is located on the hills south of Parma, between Lesignano de’ Bagni and Traversetolo, and owes its name to the gurgling sounds accompanying the emission of methane gas and mud from the subsoil through numerous small volcanoes up to 1 meter high. These geological phenomena are considered the most important in western Emilia and are truly a particular spectacle!

Food Museums of Parma and surrounding

When it comes to Parma, we cannot overlook its culinary tradition. Like many others in Emilia Romagna, the city has a very strong relationship with food. The territory is animated by 8 dedicated food museums. In Soragna, you will find the Parmigiano–Reggiano Museum, while the Prosciutto of Parma and Salumi Museum is located in Langhirano. There is also the Salame Felino Museum, and the Tomato Museum in Colecchio, where you can also find the Pasta Museum. The impressive cellars of the ancient Rocca di Sala Baganza house the Wine Museum, while the Culatello di Zibello Museum is hosted in the complex of the Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine. This incredible food and wine journey concludes with the Porcini Mushroom Museum of Borgotaro IGP, inaugurated in September 2022.

Parma and its surroundings offer a wide variety of green itineraries that combine culture, history, and nature. Choose the route that fascinates you the most and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this part of Italy. Have a great trip!

The article Parma and Surroundings: 10 Must-Visit Green Itineraries was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Have you ever evaluated what foods pollute more and the environmental impact of the food products we buy and that fill up the grocery stores? Probably not. We are so worried about our daily concerns that we often neglect that it we should pay more attention to our everyday nutrition. The process of production of many foods implies the pollution of our planet and we have to take it into account nowadays: this impact is measurable through the ecological footprint, in other words, an index that can be useful, as it keeps track of the use of productive surface areas employed in the regeneration of the resources.

Ecological footprint

Many studies, in particular by Oxford University, published on the scientific magazine Pnas, and the Universität Augsburg and Munich, reveal that the consumption of meat, fish, and dairy products occupies the highest steps of the ranking as far as polluting products are concerned.

Using a specially built algorithm, the Oxford University study calculated the ecological footprint score of over 57,000 foods sold in major supermarkets in the UK and Ireland, assigning them a score from zero (no impact) to 100 (maximum environmental impact) evaluated on 100 grams of the product.

The environmental impact calculated by the algorithm took into consideration the methods of cultivation or breeding, processing, and transport. The result is that foods containing meat and dairy products score much higher than those with more plant-based ingredients.

On the other hand, products made with cereals, fruit, and vegetables represent the more sustainable foods in this list.

It is essential not to fall for a generalization: not all cookies made with cereals or vegetables share the same ecological footprint; you should be able to choose the best ones and prefer organic products and possibly zero food miles. By doing so, you are not only helping the environment, but simultaneously, you are also supporting your body, as these studies prove that the products with a smaller environmental footprint are at the same time those with a better nutritional profile.

Fairer prices

Most of the time we don’t care about the consequences on the environment of the products we are buying, because we focus more on the price. The actual cost of meat is misleading since it doesn’t take into account the real invisible cost that it causes to the Earth. If the price included the greenhouse gas emissions originated from the process of elaboration of these products, the price would be higher and the buyers would avoid buying the foods that pollute more, preferring more sustainable and less impacting alternatives.

This is demonstrated by an important study (Calculation of external climate costs for food highlights inadequate pricing of animal products) made by the Technische Universität München and the Universität Augsburg. The researchers calculated the CO2 emissions of various food products to identify their actual ecological footprint. Once the climate damage has been defined, it has been monetized, i.e. converted into additional food costs.

The upshot is that if the foods analyzed included their climate costs, dairy products should be 91% more expensive than they are today, and meat products should cost up to 146% more.

If the “polluter pays” principle was applied, there would therefore be an important change in food choices: expensive foods would be less in demand, thus favoring the path of sustainability.

Cover image: photo by Sharon Pittaway via Unsplash

The article Adopting a green diet: what foods pollute more? was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Our daily food choices have a significant impact on the environment and the sustainability of our planet. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the food sector is responsible for about 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is due to the entire life cycle of food products, from production to packaging, transportation, preparation, and waste disposal. By choosing sustainable food, you can make a great contribution to the environment. Let’s see how.

Sustainable eating

However, there are some choices we can make to reduce the environmental impact of our food. Firstly, e can reduce the consumption of meat and dairy, which are among the most impactful food products for the environment.

According to a 2018 study published in the scientific journal Science, meat and dairy production account for 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions in the food sector, despite representing only 18% of the world’s calorie intake.

We can choose a plant-based diet or reduce the consumption of meat and dairy by opting for plant-based alternatives such as legumes, which have a much lower environmental impact.

Moreover, we can choose local and seasonal food products, thus reducing the need to transport food products from far away and reducing the environmental impact of transportation.

Also, buying unpackaged food products and reducing the consumption of pre-packaged products can reduce the environmental impact of our food.

Finally, we can reduce food waste. According to the FAO, about one-third of all food products produced for human consumption are wasted every year. This represents not only an economic loss but also a significant environmental impact, as food production requires water, energy, and other natural resources. We can reduce food waste by purchasing or preparing appropriate amounts of food and by properly storing food products.

There are also some interesting innovations in the food industry that promise to reduce the environmental impact of our food. Synthetic meat, for example, could be a sustainable solution to meat
consumption. Synthetic meat is produced in a laboratory using animal cells, reducing the need to
raise and slaughter animals for meat. This could significantly reduce the environmental impact of meat
production.

In conclusion, our daily food choices have a significant impact on the environment and the sustainability of the planet. We can do our part by reducing the consumption of meat and dairy, choosing local and seasonal food products, reducing food waste, and opting for food products with a lower ecological footprint.

Author: Luca Cordasco

The article Food and Environment: The Impact of Our Food Choices on Sustainability was originally posted on Ecobnb.

We are located in the heart of the Stelvio National Park, in one of the most welcoming places in South Tyrol: this is where the Arosea Life Balance Hotel is located, hospitality in Val d’Ultimo that makes luxury, comfort, and sustainability its own founding elements.

The natural well-being of Arosea Life Balance Hotel

Immersed in breathtaking nature, the hotel is the perfect place for a regenerating holiday, where every moment is transformed into sensations of balance, inner peace, and harmony. As soon as you walk through the door, you understand that here well–being finds its maximum expression, always combined with respect for nature and sustainability. The main elements that give life to the rooms of Arosea Life Balance Hotel are pinewood, sheep’s wool, and slate stone; all natural materials that allow them to create design places that have positive effects on our daily lives.

Pinewood, for example, has an antibacterial effect that reduces the heart rate and ensures better rest. Slate stone, which makes the environment even more refined, protects against harmful radiation. Sheep’s wool, an indigenous material from the Val d’Ultimo, is a precious natural fiber that insulates, heats, and has a self-sanitizing function. Here living according to nature becomes synonymous with health, wellness, and regeneration. The same philosophy is then found in the naturally filtered swimming pool, the 700 m² natural lake, the wellness center, the rooms, and the cuisine. In the modern dining room, in the more traditional wooden stube, guests can in fact enjoy healthy recipes, prepared with organic and local ingredients.

The surroundings of the hotel: Val d’Ultimo

Returning in the evening to the spaces of the exclusive Arosea Life Balance Hotel and waking up in the warmth of its rooms already means experiencing unforgettable moments, but another strong point of the accommodation is certainly its location. In fact, Val d’Ultimo is one of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in all of South Tyrol: unspoiled wild nature awaits you here, with numerous stretches of water (the hotel itself is located on the shores of Lake Zoccolo) and infinite green spaces where you can indulge in excursions, via ferratas and walks.

The woods as far as the eye can see, the picturesque villages, the traditional huts, but also the proximity to Merano, the ruins of the Eschenlohe Castle, and the Church of Sant’Elena make this place truly surprising.

Wellness holiday in Val d’Ultimo: unmissable experiences

Arosea Life Balance Hotel pampers its guests with small and big attentions. For example, you can treat yourself to a sheep’s wool ritual, which envelops the body in natural warmth, that penetrates deep into the epidermal layers and thus releases all tension. You can try the hay bath or the different types of sauna and start the day with seasonal products and excellent organic bread from the buffet. Not far from the hotel, you cannot miss the natural baths of Lad and Oltretorrente.

The article Arosea Life Balance Hotel: natural wellness in Val d’Ultimo was originally posted on Ecobnb.

What is the ecological footprint of the food industry? Find out about the food’s carbon footprint and how to reduce it every day

We forget to take care of the Earth, but without it, we are condemned. We need to make a difference and start healthy cohabitation with our planet. Over the years, our planet has experienced an extremely delicate balance. If we continue to exploit resources carelessly, the end could be closer than expected, and climate change is proving that more and more every year. We have to start thinking about all our choices and ask ourselves what are the consequences of our actions at the environmental level, especially when it comes to our diet. In fact, a third of the industry that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions is food, not just in transportation, but also in food production.

Food’s carbon footprint: the environmental impact of nutrition

In the beginning, it was quite difficult to assess the real impact of the foods we consume without any reference, but thanks to a group of UK researchers, we were able to measure the environmental cost of around 57,000 products sold in supermarkets. Four parameters are taken into account: greenhouse gas production, land use, water consumption and the quantity of phosphates discharged into water or air.

This analysis concluded that the production of meat, fish and dairy products has a catastrophic impact on the environment compared to cereals, fruits and vegetables.

THE DARK SIDES OF FOOD

Our diet relies primarily on animal proteins whose production not only causes suffering for billions of animals, but also destroys the environment. The richest forests in biodiversity, which enable us to fight climate change, are only cut down to increase grazing and produce food for intensive farms.

Moreover, according to the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, dairy production pollutes more than the world’s two biggest fossil fuel producers. In one year, industrial pollution is comparable to greenhouse gas emissions from nearly 7 million automobiles.

WHAT ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO?

We hold in our hands the power to change and bring relief to our world.

Of course, changes are not easy for anybody, but they are also fundamental to improving the health of the planet and ours.

Animal protein should be reduced or eliminated and replaced with soy and tofu, for example, which also have a higher level of nutrition than meat. When you do groceries, you need to take precautions, such as purchasing only what you need to avoid waste and encourage the purchase of seasonal, organic, and zero-kilometer food.

Cover image: food’s carbon footprint, photo via Canva pro

Author: Martina Romanin. Hi! I’m Martina, a student of Modern Languages for Tourist and Business Mediation at the University of Trento. I love to travel and discover local cultures as a local. I love walking in nature and listening to good music when I want to relax. Right now I am in Tenerife to carry out the Erasmus + program

The article Food’s Carbon Footprint: are we eating our future? was originally posted on Ecobnb.

We had already understood how beautiful Basilicata was, but we could not imagine how magical, unique, and wonderful Matera could be. After taking us to some of the most beautiful villages in Basilicata, the blog tour organized by Martulli Viaggi, with Francesca Milione, led us to the most important jewel in the region. Are you ready?

The Sassi of Matera, a heritage of history and beauty

Matera is surrounded by a natural landscape that almost seems to embrace it. The city’s most ancient part is the Sassi, declared Unesco Heritage in 1993. These are the districts of Sasso Barisano, Sasso Caveoso, and Civita. Together they form a tangle of stairways and breathtaking streets. Getting lost is equivalent to immersing yourself in a millenary history, which appears here in all its touching beauty.

Over the course of 10 thousand years, houses, cisterns, and churches have been carved directly into the rock, representing an incredible example of negative architecture. Here people didn’t add any material, but on the contrary they removed it by digging the limestone, thus creating underground environments. Over time the city has managed to maintain its identity. Today, after overcoming great difficulties, the region continues to redevelop and recover this jewel sustainably. The result is something truly unique that has always inspired travelers, writers, and filmmakers.

We walk in this mosaic of caves overlapping each other, and we are overwhelmed by the beauty. We retrace the places chosen for films such as The Passion of the Christ and The Gospel According to St. Matthew, and we are forever enraptured by the unique charm of this city. Then we find out how people once lived in cave houses. We see the stratification of history through the most ancient testimonies that leave room for Romanesque churches. We are lucky to meet Pasquale, who continues to make terracotta pots in an artisanal way. Inside a small rock church, we listen to a popular song accompanied by the Cupa Cupa, an instrument made up of a container and a long and thin reed.

After sunset, the city becomes even more suggestive. The day can only end by admiring the city from one of the many panoramic points.

Matera also means bread

Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world, as is its bread, an essential symbol. We discover its history and some curiosities inside Il Forno di Gennaro bakery, open since 1890.

Bread in Matera represented not only the most important daily food but a ritual of the entire community. Once a week, the women of each family used to make bread at home. In the early morning, a boy passed by the houses to collect the dough and the housewives accompanied him to the public oven. Here the baker baked the bread and then delivered it to families. To prevent confusing the loaves, he then proceeded to mark them with a wooden stamp that each family owned.

One of the characteristics that make Matera bread unique is its shape, which resembles a croissant. The loaves prepared by the housewives were between two and five kilos, but the bakers needed to bake as much bread as possible at a time. Here then is that the bread of Matera develops in height, assuming this particular shape. People added then the ritual of the three cuts: a gesture of devotion that represents the Holy Trinity and the desire to thank God for this important food. But if you look closely at the Matera bread you will notice that it remembers something. The inhabitants of this place so tied to their territory like to tell that the shape evokes the much loved barren shapes of the Murgia Materana. It’s definitely true. Chance or will?

From the stones to the Murgia: trekking through canyons and enchanted views

Matera fits in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. The Sassi are carved on the rocks of the ravine and are reflected with the Murgia Materana, forming a truly fascinating urban ecosystem. The two environments, the city and the Murgia Park, are connected by a wonderful path. It’s a mandatory adventure for those who want to fully experience this territory!

The route starts from the city, at Porta Pistola. From here we go down to the bottom of the canyon and towards the stream. We walk surrounded by wild thyme until we reach a wooden bridge that allows us to reach the other side. Once we reach it, you begin the climb toward the caves and towards the belvedere. Even if you arrive tired, as soon as you see the view you will forget all about it. Seeing Matera from the Murgia is truly a unique sight that is worth anything!

To tackle this path I recommend comfortable clothing and hiking shoes to avoid slipping in the bumpiest sections. In summer, a hat and sunscreen are a must, in fact there is no stretch in the shade.

A stop to discover the Amaro Lucano

During our blog tour in Matera, we also made a short detour to Pisticci, the village where the historic Amaro Lucano company is based. Here we have discovered some more details about this excellent Basilicata product, now known all over the world, and we also had the opportunity to taste an excellent Lucanian spritz! The company, which after 128 years is still family-run, is carrying out an important project through which it will return to a 100% local product, using exclusively herbs and ingredients grown in Basilicata. The museum housed within the recently renovated company is definitely worth a visit!

Where to sleep in Matera

During our days in Matera, we were guests of Tenuta Danesi. It is a farm surrounded by greenery a few kilometers from the city. Here we were greeted by Michele and cuddled by the chef with fantastic culinary delicacies. Unforgettable the dinner with fish specialties that met the most typical Lucanian flavors. If you are looking for a B&B in the Sassi or something different, here you will find all the other eco-sustainable accommodations!

This blog tour in Basilicata and Matera was truly an unforgettable experience that allowed us to discover the most authentic sides of the territory, getting in touch with nature, traditions, and special people.

The article Matera: our blog tour to discover the pearl of Basilicata was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Luigi, one of our guides, had warned us even before arriving in the Lucanian territory. Basilicata would have remained in our hearts forever, it would have made us fall in love. Looking at the first rolling hills aboard our bus we still didn’t realize how right he would be.

We have recently finished a beautiful blog tour in Basilicata. Today we are going to tell you about some of the places and experiences we have lived in these days. Martulli Viaggi, with the collaboration of Francesca Milione, led us to the discovery of this wonderful yet still little-known region. The landscapes seem to change every kilometer. Where you turn there is a village, a natural park, a castle to admire and explore.

The first days of our blog tour: discovering some of the most fascinating villages in Basilicata

Our first stop is Sasso di Castalda: thus we find ourselves at 949 meters high, in the heart of the Appennino Lucano-Val d’Agri-Lagonegrese National Park. We are greeted by the characteristic stone houses, the steep stairways, and the pretty colorful alleys with flowered balconies. An aperitif with local products is the perfect opportunity to meet the other bloggers with whom we’ll share the next few days’ adventures.

This is perhaps the first surprise. Basilicata gives us incredible flavors, which best describe the rich territory and the agro–pastoral tradition. From crusco peppers to cheeses and wine, we discover genuine foods that are a real triumph for the palate.
After the aperitif, the deputy mayor takes us to some of the most important places in the village. We discover some secret corners at night and listen to the story of Rocco Petrone. He was the American engineer, son of two inhabitants of the village, who led the Apollo 11 space mission from the Kennedy Space Center.

We spend the night in a beautiful accommodation. Terra del Sasso Suites offers two spacious rooms tastefully furnished, with attention to every detail. But what makes the difference are Michela and Angelo, who warm your heart with their kindness and their gastronomic treats at breakfast.

The morning in Sasso di Castalda begins from the balcony of our room. Even in the rain, we realize the beauty that surrounds this village perched in the shade of high rocks. In front of us, we can admire wonderful views of the surrounding landscape and an interesting geosite. We also catch a glimpse of Ponte Alla Luna, a Tibetan bridge that today represents one of the greatest attractions of this corner of Basilicata.

Ponte Alla Luna, adrenaline-fueled adventures in Basilicata

In 2017, Ponte Alla Luna opened its doors. Today it’s perhaps one of the most exciting and impressive experiences you can live in Basilicata. Its name recalls the link between Sasso di Castalda and the moon landing. It is a Tibetan bridge, one of the longest and most fascinating in the region. In reality, the attraction consists of two different suspension bridges. The first one s 95 meters long and suspended at about 30 meters high and you’ll need to practice. After that, you reach the rock side characterized by geological formations and the other bridge. This is 300 meters long with a maximum height from the stream below of 102 meters. It is a unique and breathtaking experience, that you practice in total safety and which allows you to admire Lucanian nature from a different perspective. If you don’t suffer from vertigo like me, it’s worth living!

The murals of Sant’Angelo Le Fratte

The second destination of our blog tour in Basilicata is Sant’Angelo le Fratte. The village together with Satriano and Savoia di Lucania forms the “Most painted valley in Italy”. From 1995 onwards some of the houses have been decorated with paintings by various Italian and international artists. New ones are added every year and today there are 158 murals. They tell the history, customs, and habits of the community and make this small village even more fascinating and evocative. You can discover it by getting lost in its colorful alleys.

Sant’Angelo Le Fratte is also famous for its cellars, carved directly into the rock of Carpineto mountain and which have always been used to store wine, cheese, and cured meats. Every year, from 12 to 14 August, the cellars come alive by hosting the much-loved event “The Open Cellars of Sant’Angelo Le Fratte”.

Castelmezzano and the Little Dolomites

Basilicata is dotted with small and charming villages and so you have a lot of choices. We were lucky enough to visit Castelmezzano, which deservedly is part of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy association. So we moved from the Appennino Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese National Park to the Regional Park of the Lucanian Dolomites and we found ourselves in front of a majestic panorama. The village climbs on the rock and in the background, you can admire the profiles of the so-called small Dolomites, which almost seem to protect the houses.

Games of light and shadows seem to give life to the peaks of these fascinating mountains: popular tradition has thus given them the names of Golden Eagle, Beak of the Owl, Great Mother, Anvil, and Lion’s Mouth. We cross the natural gate of the town, a tunnel carved into the rock, and walk through the heart of this typically medieval village. A suggestive ladder carved into the rock leads us to the ruins of the city walls, to the ancient castle of Castrum Medianum, and an impressive viewpoint.

Viggiano, stage of the pilgrimage in Basilicata

Another stop on our blog tour in Basilicata is Viggiano, a village famous for being the most important religious center in the region for the presence of the cult of the Black Madonna, Patroness of Basilicata, and for its rich musical tradition, in particular linked to the harp. Here we have the opportunity to try our hand at homemade pasta. A group of women from Viggiano teaches us to make ferricelli, the undisputed protagonist of the village tables.

Basilicata is a region that you must live fully, its beauty is indescribable. Ideal for us eco-travelers thanks mainly to the presence of two national parks and three regional parks, perfect for those who want to take a food holiday, for those who dream of an active or cultural holiday. The things that will win your heart are its varied landscapes, from the gullies to the peaks that recall the Dolomites, the magic of Matera, the wildest corners, and above all the people who welcome you and make you feel at home.

Where to sleep in Basilicata

Do you want to fall in love with this region as we did? Plan your next holiday in Basilicata now, staying in eco-friendly holiday homes, B&Bs and hotels.

Our blog tour in Basilicata certainly could not fail to include Matera! Keep following us to discover all the beauty of its stone town.

The article Murals, Tibetan bridges and mountains: the villages of Basilicata was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The Great Desmontegar Festival is back for the twenty-second edition. It’s time to celebrate the return of the cattle to the valley after the summer pasture. It is a tradition and this year, after two editions affected by the pandemic, it returns to its former glory, involving inhabitants and visitors from all over the Primiero Valley.

The Great Desmontegar festival at the foot of the Pale di San Martino

The Gran Festa del Desmontegar officially marks the end of summer. It is with the first cold weather that the herds of dairy cows, heifers, calves, and horses return to the stables of their respective breeders. They spent the summer in the high-altitude mountain huts, among pastures rich in mountain herbs and flowers that give their milk and cheese the classic golden yellow color and an unmistakable aroma.

For the occasion, all the animals are festively decorated, as are the families of the farmers who wear traditional clothes. The procession arrives in the different locations of the valley: Transacqua, Fiera di Primiero, Tonadico, Siror, Mezzano, Imèr, Passo Cereda, and San Martino di Castrozza. The four days are enriched by exclusive moments such as farm experiences, local produce tastings, and workshops for the kids. There are also moments of music and folklore. The climax of the Great Desmontegar festival is Sunday, the day of the longest and most attended parade.

The appointment is for September 29th

This year’s Gran Festa del Desmontegar starts on Thursday 29 September and ends on Sunday 2 October. On these 4 days, the valley celebrates the ancient rite of transhumance, the colors, and activities of the peasant world. It is a unique and exciting event, perfect to experience with the whole family! Are you ready?

Where to sleep to participate in the Great Desmontegar festival

Between eco-hotels and organic farmhouses, you have many possibilities to organize a small holiday in the heart of the Dolomites. Here you will find all the eco-sustainable accommodations in the Primiero Valley.

The article The Great Desmontegar festival is back: let’s celebrate transhumance in Primiero! was originally posted on Ecobnb.