The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been designated a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2025. This recognition highlights the region's deep-rooted agricultural traditions, particularly the cultivation of lemons under traditional chestnut pergolas.
These ancient farming methods, which rely on the manual labor of "flying farmers" navigating steep terraces, are crucial for landscape preservation, preventing soil erosion, and promoting biodiversity. The region is a haven for plant life, with over 970 recorded plant species, including rare Mediterranean flora. The "Sfusato Amalfitano" lemon, a prime example of this low-impact farming, yields up to 35 tons per hectare without pesticides. The terraced hillsides themselves are a testament to human ingenuity in adapting to challenging terrains.
In 2025, the 13 municipalities of the Amalfi Coast launched the "Amalfi Coast UNESCO World Heritage" project to boost cultural and economic vitality. This initiative focuses on sustainable tourism and cultural revitalization, promoting a balance between human activities and the environment. The Amalfi Coast serves as a model for sustainable agriculture in mountainous Mediterranean regions.
Research indicates that the terraced agricultural systems, dating back to the 11th century, are vital for landscape stability. These human-engineered ecosystems, with their dry-stone walls, help regulate water and temperature. Their continued maintenance by active farmers is essential for preserving cultural heritage and mitigating risks like landslides, especially with changing rainfall patterns. The FAO's GIAHS recognition aligns with global efforts to safeguard traditional farming systems that integrate biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage, and resilient livelihoods. The GIAHS program, established in 2002, champions these systems as crucial for addressing challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.