Podere Case Lovara is located on the Punta Mesco promontory, stretching out in the Ligurian Sea, separating the Bay of Levanto from the Bay of Monterosso. The 45 hectares owned by FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) include three rural buildings, in addition to a thickly wooded area with holm oaks and pines, alternated with areas of Mediterranean undergrowth.
Over time, the extraordinary coexistence between sea and vegetation has developed an exceptional biodiversity in a territory shaped skilfully by centuries of human presence without damaging its fragile ecological balance. The new rules established by the foundation of the Parco nazionale delle Cinque Terre, in 1999, saved the area from the threat of building and development but also brought an end to the long history of human settlement at Punta Mesco. The donation meant that FAI, with support from the Zegna Fondazione, was able to move forward with a project to restore the area’s historical agricultural function while respecting the principles of the park: 60% of its energy needs will come from renewable sources. The first phase of the project saw the restoration of buildings and landscapes and the creation of areas for olive groves, grape vines, fruit orchards and vegetable cultivation. Visitors are provided with welcoming spaces and the opportunity to learn about the settlement’s past and future, in addition to in-depth information about the surroundings and the numerous pathways crossing one of the most beautiful and characteristic landscapes in all Liguria.
FAI - Fondo Ambiente Italiano
Via Carlo Foldi 2 - 20135 Milano
Phone: +39 02 46 76 15 393
Email: m.pizzorni@fondoambiente.it
