Masseria
In the heart of the Masseria Torre Zuvinu estate, olive groves, citrus orchards, and vineyards embrace the ancient buildings, guarding centuries of history. Here, visitors can admire the Watchtower, the historic Trappeto (olive mill) with its hydraulic works, the Farm Museum, and the Wine Museum.
The History of the Masseria
The Zuino estate has evolved over the centuries, shaped by historical, economic, and social events, as well as natural occurrences that have left their mark. The oldest part of the estate is undoubtedly the Watchtower, built to monitor Saracen invasions that once threatened the Ionian coast. Around it, the estate gradually developed: courtyards, granaries, workers’ lodgings, ovens, mills, stables, and buildings for pressing olives and grapes.
Thanks to its strategic location—close to ancient trade routes and the Assi river, one of the region’s most vital waterways—the masseria flourished over time. The abundance of olive groves led to the construction of a large oil mill, originally powered by water and, later in 1924, by a hydraulic turbine. However, a devastating flood in 1951 marked a turning point: both the crops and the hydraulic infrastructure were severely damaged and never rebuilt, having been replaced by electricity.
The Masseria and Rural Life
Visitors are invited to take a journey into the past and experience the everyday life of a traditional Calabrian masseria. Like stepping into a film, this immersive route reveals the people, places, and rhythms of rural life, all within an unspoiled natural setting.
The experience follows the ancient “Water Path”—a route tracing the flow from the source of the Assi River down to the valley, passing through gardens, orchards, water mills, hydraulic presses, dwellings, and stables. This trail tells the story of a sustainable and respectful use of water—a precious resource.
The Plantations
The estate’s crops extend over about 16 hectares, featuring olive groves, citrus orchards, and vineyards, alongside vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and wild herbs that enrich the region’s biodiversity.
The Watchtower
Torre Zuvinu and its defensive system tell fascinating stories of Turks and Saracens, castles and outposts built to protect the territory.
Historically, towers and fortresses were built in strategic locations between the sea and inland hill towns, or to defend private estates. Most date back to before the 17th century. Torre Zuvinu specifically served as a watch and defense post against coastal threats.
The Olive Mill ( Trappeto )
The “Trappeto alla Genovese” is one of the estate’s historical jewels. A visit to this ancient olive oil mill allows guests to trace the evolution of agricultural technology: from the Persian wheel to the hydraulic turbine, from internal combustion engines to electricity generated by a water-powered dynamo.
The Farm Museum
Housed within the old oil mill, the Farm Museum features a rich collection of artifacts from rural life and traditional agriculture. A true “museum within a museum”, it preserves and honors the memory of a world that still lives on through its stories.
The Wine Museum
Vineyards have thrived in this land since ancient times. For centuries, wine was produced in palmenti—stone structures used for crushing grapes and storing must. Today, these ancient winemaking sites have been restored and continue to operate, offering tastings and guided tours that celebrate the legacy of Calabrian viticulture.
The Fruit Garden
Once used as a shelter for migrating sheep during transhumance, the courtyard has now been transformed into a vibrant Mediterranean garden. It hosts a remarkable variety of trees and plants: citrus fruits, loquats, persimmons, banana trees, prickly pears, wild asparagus, and more—creating a haven of biodiversity.
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Agriturismo Villa Vittoria C.da Botteria snc
88065 GUARDAVALLE (CZ)
Telefono e WhatsApp:
+39 347 301 5903