Il Rifugio del Favo (The Refuge of the Honeycomb) is a heritage visitor centre in Mulazzo, Italy with a central focus on revitalising the town and tradition of the wider region of Lunigiana. Stopping the process of out-migration and attracting people across different age groups to the area, creating a specific reason to visit Mulazzo.
Miele della Lunigiana DOP (Chestnut and Acacia Honey) and Farina di Castagne della Lunigiana DOP (Chestnut Flour) are two products with a Protected Designation of Origin in the Massa Carrara Province, Lunigiana, including Mulazzo. The production process of these follows a longstanding, somewhat dying, tradition. The centre follows this full process, across the extent of the site, featuring a working apiary surrounded by chestnut and acacia trees, through which a path leads to a traditional chestnut flour mill and honey production factory. The journey then continues to an education zone, enabling enjoyment of the centre across the annum, followed by a dedicated tasting zone of the raw products. A restaurant serving only traditional recipes from the Lunigiana region made with these products, such as those with specifically chestnut flour, allows for dedicated local appreciation. With a further opportunity to extend this appreciation in the cookery school, learning to make these recipes and extend the influence of Mulazzo and its heritage past Mulazzo. A joint scheme with other apiaries and chestnut groves across the province will ensure the success and extended reach of the products, with opportunity to buy these directly on site. Should visitation occur at the harvesting points, spread across the annum, there is opportunity to get involved, as well as dedicated beekeeping courses and the adopting of specific beehives within the joint venture.
The materiality of the buildings themselves also aims to reflect the heritage with a modern flair, increasing multi-generational interest.
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