The secrets of Capraia's Palmenti

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The secrets of Capraia’s Palmenti

A heritage yet to be discovered

The secrets of Capraia’s Palmenti

A heritage yet to be discovered

Capraia between nature and wine traditions

Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and wine connoisseurs, get ready for a unique experience on the enchanting island of Capraia. Immersed in green and lush trails, a hidden treasure awaits to be discovered: the Palmenti. Silent witnesses of an ancient and fascinating wine tradition, these wide quadrangular tanks expertly carved into the rock are spread throughout the island, particularly in the areas of Le Tigghielle and near the majestic Forte San Giorgio.

A journey into the ancient art of winemaking

Inside the palmenti, whose name comes from the Latin word “pavimentum” (to beat, to crush), the grapes were crushed barefoot, following a winemaking process that reflects a technique from the Bronze Age practiced in Palestine and Crete. The functioning of a palmento is fascinating in its simplicity: two communicating tanks, connected by a small hole. In the upper tank, the grapes were stomped on so that the must would flow into the lower tank, from where it was collected and transported to the cellar. The remains were then pressed to extract even more must.

Within the island’s agricultural production, often entrusted to women, wine was essential both as food for the population and as a trade commodity. The palmenti, along with the bread ovens, were probably public property, in harmony with the communal management system of the most important resources.

Useful informations

Who:

Alone, Children and families, Groups, In pairs, With friends
When:

Autumn, Spring, Summer, Winter
What:
Other characteristics

Free, Outdoors, Without reservation