Andora is set to unveil a new chapter in the revitalization of its historic core with the inauguration of the Oliveto di Borgo Castello on Saturday, February 7, at 12:00 PM. This event marks a significant milestone in the urban, economic, and social regeneration of the hillside, part of the broader initiative “Remembering the Past to Build the Future.” This project is being spearheaded by the Municipality of Andora in collaboration with the Liguria Region, Liguria Superintendence, Anci Liguria, the University of Genoa, and is financially supported by the Ministry of Culture through European PNRR funds. Last November, the reopening of the Clavesana Castle had already revitalized this area.
The Oliveto di Borgo Castello, which had long been overgrown and hidden beneath thorns, has not only undergone a landscape recovery but will also serve as an educational pathway highlighting ancient Ligurian farming practices. This initiative is part of a larger project to establish an experiential agricultural company in the area.
Mayor Mauro Demichelis commented on the project, stating, “With a significant financial investment, the entire slope, encompassing 23,692 square meters, has been restored and made accessible through new pathways, where traditional dry stone walls have been reconstructed. On the newly revitalized terraces, alongside ancient, resilient plants, an additional hundred olive trees are being planted, which will enable the production of extra virgin olive oil to be marketed under the Borgo Castello brand.”
The opening ceremony will feature notable attendees including Alessandro Piana, the Liguria Region’s Agriculture Assessor; Michele Sonnessa, the National President of the Association Cities of Oil; Enrico Lupi, President of the CCIIAA Riviere di Liguria; and Pierluigi Vinai, Director of Anci Liguria. Alongside Mayor Demichelis, Council President Flavio Marchiano, who oversees agriculture, and Corrado Siffredi, President of the Borgo Castello Foundation, will collectively cut the ribbon on the terrace of the archaeological park, which provides a stunning view of the entire olive grove.
This project symbolizes not just the restoration of a historical site, but also reflects a commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement, promising a bright future for Andora’s cultural heritage and local economy.