Riconoscimenti e impegno per un turismo sostenibile
La storia di un percorso fatto di cura e responsabilità
A journey of care recognised over time
When I first began restoring this family home, I never imagined that our work would receive recognition at a national level. My intention was simply to give Palazzola back its original identity, to respect its history, and to guide every guest towards an authentic and mindful experience.
Over the years, this commitment has found a response that I consider truly meaningful, because it concerns not only the house itself, but also the way we choose to live in and tell the story of Montepulciano. Receiving awards dedicated to sustainable tourism means that my vision has been understood and shared. It is a satisfaction I am happy to share with all those who choose to stay here.
Three national Legambiente Ecotourism Oscar awards
Since 2013, Legambiente has awarded the Ecotourism Oscars each year to the best Italian experiences in sustainable tourism. This is a highly prestigious recognition, given to initiatives that promote environmental protection, responsible hospitality, and the enhancement of cultural heritage.
With great gratitude, our Residence has received this award on three occasions.
2016 – Communication
For the way we tell the story of Montepulciano and its history, inviting guests to experience Tuscany with respect, curiosity and simplicity.
2017 – Enhancing local craftsmanship through restoration
For the recovery of furnishings, materials and traditional building techniques that made it possible to bring the spaces of the house back to life without altering its identity.
2019 – Roof insulation using innovative and eco-friendly materials
For a complex project that combined environmental sustainability, energy efficiency and protection of the landscape.
This latest award came after a long civic battle to defend the historic centre from a proposed multi-storey car park that would have permanently compromised the view and the balance of the town. It was a collective mobilisation that brought together residents, associations and all those who love Montepulciano. Taking part in that struggle was an act of responsibility towards the place where I live and which I wish to protect.
Protecting the landscape as a shared responsibility
The landscape of Montepulciano is not merely a backdrop, but a living heritage that belongs both to those who live here and to those who arrive from afar. To defend it means to safeguard the memory and beauty of a territory that has crossed centuries without losing its harmony.
Our home overlooks one of the most sensitive areas of the town, and every intervention affecting the surrounding environment inevitably has an impact on the community. For this reason, I believe it is essential to take part in the decisions that shape the future urban development of Montepulciano.
Caring for the land is a commitment carried out day by day, and it involves all of us.
Turismo lento in collina: il progetto che guardava avanti
Nel 2021 ho presentato un progetto che mi sta particolarmente a cuore: “Turismo lento in collina”.
L’idea nasce dal desiderio di favorire un modo di viaggiare più rispettoso e attento, che permetta di scoprire la nostra zona con passi lenti, su due ruote o senza automobile.
Il progetto valorizza tre elementi fondamentali:
il cicloturismo
il trekking
il turismo senz’auto
Credo che questo sia il futuro del nostro territorio. Un turismo che sostiene le piccole aziende agricole, le attività artigiane, il commercio locale e il settore dei servizi. Un turismo che crea ricchezza senza consumare il paesaggio, che rafforza la comunità e valorizza ciò che la Toscana ha di più prezioso: la sua identità.
Un ricordo che continua a ispirarmi
Dedico idealmente questi riconoscimenti alla memoria di Agitu Ideo Gudeta, sociologa e imprenditrice che ha rappresentato un esempio straordinario di coraggio e visione.
Il suo lavoro nel recupero dei terreni montani, il sostegno alla microimprenditoria femminile e il suo impegno sociale hanno influenzato profondamente il modo in cui concepisco l’ospitalità e la relazione con il territorio.
Agitu ha dimostrato che anche una piccola realtà può generare un impatto culturale importante. La sua storia rimane un riferimento prezioso per tutte le donne che scelgono di costruire un percorso autonomo con determinazione, intelligenza e rispetto.