Heritage, Territory, Identity, Ennoblement of Typical Local Products. L’Oro di Capri: A Model of Sustainable Development

摘要

This paper summarizes the results of an anthropological analysis – conducted with the methodological instruments used in ethnographic research – based on a virtuous model of territorial development. This study was aimed at enhancing the natural landscape of a small urban area, principally dedicated to tourism, through the recovery of the traditional manner of olive cultivation which is at risk of extinction. The case study in reference is situated in Campania, on the Island of Capri, and specifically in the small town of Anacapri which only numbers 6,684 residents. Action aimed at recovery of the agricultural areas began in 2014 and has been brought forward with determination by the L’Oro di Capri Association, established by several private backers in conjunction with local farmers with the objective of recuperating ancient, abandoned olive groves and converting them to organic cultivation in order to produce very high quality olive oil. This enhancement project led to several unexpected results as it has contributed to redefining local community identity, strengthened social ties and reawaken ancient feelings of heritage.