History and Culture: Agricolture, Landscape

Vineate, Olivate and Chestnutate lands

Agriculture and Viticulture in the Hills of Cogorno and Lavagna

The sunny hills of Cogorno and Lavagna were divided into various types of cultivation, often promiscuous:

Vineate Lands: Areas mainly dedicated to the cultivation of vines.
Vineate and Olivate Lands: Land where vines and olive trees were grown together.
Olivate Lands: Areas dedicated exclusively to olive trees.
Olivate and Chestnutate Lands: Areas where olive trees were grown alongside chestnut trees.

On the plains, the land was divided between meadows (meadows), cereal crops, fruit, greens and greens, all necessary to meet local needs. However, these areas were often subject to flooding from the Entella river and were only protected with embankments in the late period.

The Olive Tree and the Bands

The olive grove, often communally owned, was sold in shares similar to ships. Olive trees were often grown together with figs on the typical strips, i.e. terraces supported by dry stone walls, built with slate scraps, which allowed cultivation on steep slopes.

Viticulture

In the 14th century, Cogorno and Lavagna, together with their hamlets, were known for their developed vine cultivation. The production exceeded local needs and was commercialized. Viticulture was often promiscuous, with the vine grown together with other plants, unlike the specialized cultivation of Western Liguria.

The Chestnut Forest

In the highest ranges, between 400 and 500 metres, the chestnut forest was the most extensive form of land use:

Chestnut dryers: Structures scattered on the slopes for drying chestnuts.
Use of chestnut wood: Highly sought after for various uses in the village, such as fire, ovens, the manufacture of barrels, vats and poles for local agriculture.

In the 13th century, the chestnut forest was also exploited for construction, craftsmanship and the naval industry, especially in Genoa. Chestnuts were mainly intended for human consumption, acting as a substitute for wheat and constituting a local trade item. Only a small part of the chestnuts was used for pig breeding.

The hills of Cogorno and Lavagna represent an example of how natural resources and local agricultural practices have been skilfully integrated over the centuries. From promiscuous cultivation techniques to the management of chestnut woods, these areas have developed an agricultural architecture and a food culture that have been able to adapt and resist over time.

Sources

Porcella M., “La fatica e la Merica”, Genova, Sagep, 1986

Viarengo G., “L’Albero della Cuccagna. Paesaggio, alimentazione e cucina nella Liguria di Levante”, Chiavari, Internòs, 2023

Trekking and cycling routes that may interest you

Itineraries of different durations and suitable for every taste and level of preparation, to discover the most beautiful and evocative places and panoramas of the Ligurian Tigullio.