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Bel Poggiolo i san eighteenth century stone farmhouse which looks out over the olive groves where, in the 19th century, the Monini family began their famous olive oil production. The activity grew constantly and ramified internationally. Today, Monini is a household name and is considered one of the best labels for quality extra virgin olive oil and other fine foods. It is still a working farm of 20 hectares. But the site of the Poggiolo witnesses a much more ancient history. Near the farmhouse there is a startling 14th century fortress, where the local inhabitants took refuge during the frequent raids and conflicts of the Middle Ages. In the middle of the ruined fortress there is an olive grove. It is said that in this same spot, and in much greater antiquity, there used to be a shrine, which faced out onto Jupiter's sacred mountain of Monteluco. In 1980 my wife, Eleonora Monini and I, began to come here for week-ends and vacations and I also used it as a creative retreat when writing my latest book "Carmen Via, Journey in the songlines of Italy." (click) In 1996, we also began to rent the property out to travellers as part of our cultural travel project. Now the farmhouse has become part of our circuit of storygardens, for exploration, storytelling and the enjoyment of the endless days of Umbria's beauty. The property is sometimes referred to as "Belvedere" (which means beautiful observatory), because it is a panoramic terrace with spectacular views in each direction. Sometimes you feel you have the whole of Umbria at your feet. We call this a Storygarden; it is not strictly speaking a garden but its rolling hilltop exposes its garden as the landscapes of Umbria. |
