Tipology:
Farmer
Description
The White Corn (Maize) of Fluminimaggiore is a traditional variety cultivated mainly for livestock feed, such as for chickens and pigs, but also for human consumption. The kernels were ground in watermills to produce wholemeal flour, used for polenta and corn bread, often mixed with wheat flour to improve dough elasticity. Frequently grown in association with beans, the maize also served as a natural support for climbing plants, combining productivity with local agricultural tradition.
Technical information
Kingdom:
Vegetale
Family:
Poaceae (Gramineae)
Genus:
Zea
Species:
Zea mays L.
For more information visit
www.biodiversitasardegna.it
Farmers of biodiversity
The interest's points
Tipology:
Point of interest
Fluminimaggiore
Fluminimaggiore is a municipality in southwestern Sardinia, nestled between mountains, green valleys, and a rugged, wild coastline overlooking the Sea of Sardinia. The town stretches along the course of the Mannu River and maintains a strong connection to its mining history, which for over a century shaped both the landscape and the identity of the local community.
The surrounding area is characterized by limestone ridges, holm oak forests, and Mediterranean scrub, crossed by numerous trails ideal for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. Among the most notable natural sites are the Su Mannau Caves, one of Sardinia’s most important karst complexes, used since ancient times as a Nuragic sanctuary and today appreciated for its extraordinary beauty.
The municipality extends to the coast, where Portixeddu Beach offers a wide stretch of golden sand washed by clear, often windy waters—popular among surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Nearby cliffs and coves provide pristine, lightly frequented environments, perfect for those seeking silence and direct contact with nature. The area also preserves important archaeological sites, such as the Temple of Antas, dedicated to the god Sardus Pater, set in a lush and evocative valley.
In this context of strong connection to the land, the preservation of local agricultural biodiversity is especially important. In Fluminimaggiore, dedicated custodians work to protect traditional varieties: Martino Liscia, guardian of the White Bean of Fluminimaggiore and the White Corn (Maize), and Annalisa Congia, guardian of the White Bean of Fluminimaggiore. Thanks to their efforts, this valuable agricultural heritage continues to be preserved and passed on, helping to maintain the rural and cultural identity of the territory.
