A project of innovation and social regeneration for Villa Montepaldi

Creating a hub for innovation and experimentation dedicated to regenerative agriculture and integral ecological development at Villa Montepaldi—a historic farm in San Casciano Val di Pesa, once owned by Lorenzo de' Medici and since 1989 property of the University of Florence— 

is the ambitious goal of a new project. This initiative, spearheaded by the University and entrusted to the Società Agricola Benefit Montepaldi - Terre di Rinascimento Srl under the leadership of the Future Food Institute (FFI), has garnered support from prominent partners such as BF Spa. 

Presented today at Villa Ruspoli by Rector Alessandra Petrucci and Sara Roversi, President of the Future Food Institute, the project is set to unfold across cultural, economic, and social dimensions. It aims to enhance a valuable economic asset while preserving its academic functions. The initiative involves managing parts of the estate's land and the Medici manor house to restore them to full productivity. This includes promoting sustainable and inclusive agriculture, safeguarding biodiversity, and preserving the estate through careful management and maintenance. 

A particular focus of the project is to elevate the production of iconic Made-in-Italy products such as olive oil and wine, establishing Montepaldi as a benchmark for excellence in agricultural supply chains. In addition, the plan envisions creating an experimental hub for integral ecology—emphasizing a holistic approach to sustainability that considers interactions between the environment, economy, society, and culture. Complementary services, such as dining and events inspired by the Living Lab model, will also be developed. This approach fosters open and collaborative innovation, bringing together citizens, institutions, businesses, and research organisations to co-create innovative solutions. 

Another key component is strengthening Villa Montepaldi’s educational mission, which has been one of Europe’s largest educational farms over the years. The project envisions a fully-fledged campus offering training opportunities for schools and emerging professionals in the sector, making Villa Montepaldi a leading centre for both practical and theoretical knowledge on integral ecological and regenerative development models, i.e. approaches aimed at restoring and enhancing soil health and fertility while increasing biodiversity. 

“The enhancement of Montepaldi,” said Rector Alessandra Petrucci, “takes into account the commercial potential unlocked by this collaboration, establishing a Living Lab in the prestigious agricultural area of Chianti, while maintaining its role as a centre for advanced teaching and research, under the continued direct oversight of the University.” 

“The mission and innovative approach that will guide Villa Montepaldi draws inspiration from the model we developed at Paideia Campus, the Living Lab established in Pollica, Cilento, Campania, in 2020,” explained Sara Roversi, founder and president of the Future Food Institute. “At Montepaldi, we aim to create an ecosystem where regenerative agriculture, the protection of natural resources, health, and the promotion of Italy’s cultural heritage come together. With particular attention to biodiversity, soil health, and water quality, Villa Montepaldi will experiment with practices that combine science, tradition, and innovation, positioning Italy at the forefront of the European sustainability dialogue.”

Crucial to the success of the project is the network of partners who have demonstrated support for this ambitious initiative. Farmers united under the guidance of the Future Food Institute in the Società Agricola Benefit Montepaldi - Terre di Rinascimento Srl, along with BF Spa—a strategic investor and systemic partner in Italy’s agri-food sector—are pivotal contributors. 

BF Spa serves as an advanced laboratory for knowledge, technological solutions, and agronomic practices, which will collaborate in developing a scalable and replicable business model for regenerative agriculture. As a cornerstone of Italian agriculture, BF Spa promotes respect for natural resources and excellence in production. 

"Today's event marks a significant step for BF Spa in strengthening its presence in Tuscany, where we already cultivate over 4,800 hectares," stated Federico Vecchioni, CEO of BF Spa. "The Montepaldi initiative presents a unique opportunity to establish the BF Group’s national hub for regenerative agriculture in a region whose deep agricultural roots make it the ideal location for an investment that benefits the entire Tuscan community." 

The presentation featured contributions from Roberto Ciappi, Mayor of San Casciano, Stefano Pisani, Mayor of Pollica - an emblematic UNESCO Community for the Mediterranean Diet and home to the Paideia Campus, Cristina Manetti, Chief of Staff of the Tuscany Region, and Nicola Armentano, Councillor of the Metropolitan City of Florence.