A patchwork of fields surrounds us. Here at Cascina Zunico, the land whispers tales of centuries past. This is more than just a farm. Cascina Zunico is a living testament to Milanese agricultural heritage.
Cascina Zunico sits in Carpiano. It is northwest of the town center. Locate Triulzi is nearby. The municipal office is just a couple of kilometers away.
The history of Zunico stretches back. It has always been linked to Milan. Zunico was once part of the Pieve di San Giuliano. It bordered Videserto, Viboldone, and other areas. In 1751, 120 people lived here.
Under Napoleon, Zunico grew. By 1805, the population reached 339. With the inclusion of Videserto in 1809, it rose to 527. For a short time in 1811, Zunico was joined to Carpiano. Later, this was reversed. By 1853, 418 people called Zunico home.
Zunico briefly became its own municipality. But soon, a familiar idea resurfaced. The Napoleonic model was considered more efficient. In 1862, the Italian parliament approved re-joining Zunico to Carpiano. This took effect in 1863.
Today, Cascina Zunico thrives as an agricultural business. Daniele Taveggia runs the 250-hectare farm. They embrace modern ways to sell and promote their goods. Cascina Zunico specializes in organic rice. High-quality milk is also produced.
The farm cultivates different rice types. These include Carnaroli, Baldo, and Vialone. You can buy directly from the farm. They also supply restaurants. The Taveggia family has been producing milk for four generations. They focus on top-quality milk. They carefully select their livestock’s genetics.
Cascina Zunico also sells milk cows. A portion of the land grows feed for the animals. They also grow organic corn for polenta.
Notice how Cascina Zunico’s buildings form a courtyard. It leads to the small Church of S. Ambrogio. This church dates back to the 1600s. It is still consecrated. The farm itself has roots stretching back to the 1200s. It was a Benedictine convent in the 1700s.
Cascina Zunico blends tradition and innovation. They sell rice and milk directly. They plan to restore old buildings. These will become spaces for rural tourism and events.
Cascina Zunico has earned the Environmental Quality Mark. This is awarded by the Parco Agricolo Sud Milano. It recognizes their organic rice and corn production.
As you explore Cascina Zunico, consider its layers of history. From ancient origins to its current role as a modern organic farm. Cascina Zunico is a unique blend of agriculture, architecture, and faith. It continues to evolve.