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Italy wants to register the "landscape system of Chianti Classico villa farms" as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A villa-acienda typically consists of a central manor house and several agricultural buildings such as wine cellars and olive mills. Each ensemble reflects the wealth and style of its owners. These historic agricultural estates are characteristic of the region and have played an important role in the development of local agriculture, explained the board of the Italian UNESCO Commission.
The villa farms were an important part of land use planning in Chianti Classico between the 16th and 19th centuries. Their organisational form optimised agricultural production, improved local living conditions and stimulated the economy. The candidature for UNESCO World Heritage status represents a fundamental step towards the valorisation and protection of these cultural landscapes and includes 150 estates. These villa farms have kept their agricultural and forestry systems intact over the centuries.
(al / Source: Gambero Rosso)