LA TRANSUMANZA NELLE PRATICHE SILVO-PASTORALI: DUE PERCORSI IN ASPROMONTE (CALABRIA)

Abstract

Transhumance, as a silvo-pastoral practice, was widespread in the south of Italy. The study aims to retrieve information on the practice of transhumance in areas very close to the city of Reggio Calabria, in southern Italy, in order to reconstruct the tracks used in the past to bring the flocks to high altitude pastures. Using an exploratory and descriptive case study method we are able to provide focus on the phenomenon by analyzing and recording relevant elements useful for the valorization and development of these routes. In particular, two routes have been identified, which reach Aspromonte, and which could be recovered in a cultural, tourist, environmental and social key taking into account the peculiarities of the individual territorial areas in terms of naturalistic and landscape features. In this perspective, the memory of the shepherds' paths can become an innovative element and its conservation can become a development factor for economic enhancement activities.