The Cooperative of Salento
A collective of over 50 local farmers working together to preserve ancient varieties of tomatoes and olives, using sustainable methods that protect our land for future generations.
The Cooperative of Salento started as a small group of friends who realized that the native varieties of tomatoes and olives were slowly disappearing. Decades of modern agricultural practices had favored higher-yield crops over the resilient and flavor-rich native species.
Now, the cooperative has grown to over 50 farmers spread across the Salento peninsula. They share resources, knowledge, and a commitment to sustainable farming without aggressive pesticides.
'Our goal isn't just to produce food,' says founder Antonio. 'It's to ensure that the flavors our grandparents grew up with are still here for our grandchildren.'
Visitors can tour the farms, participate in the olive harvest in late autumn, or simply enjoy the unparalleled taste of an authentic Salento tomato. It's a true community effort that benefits everyone.