Spannocchia

this is a branch of a fig tree!

The place we were staying is called Spannocchia. It's about 1/2 hour southwest of Siena, and it seems to be a magical little realm all to itself. (or maybe just to me! I'm not sure- have I mentioned how excited I was to be there?) :)
http://www.spannocchia.org/ or http://www.spannocchia.com/ One website is for the foundation, one is for accommodations if you want to just stay there as a tourist.

There are some good pictures and even a plan, of where we stayed here: http://www.spannocchia.com/accommodations/casa-del-fantino.cfm

Italy has developed this great system called agriturismo. As a way to preserve their agricultural land and heritage while taking advantage of the tourism potential many working farms rent out accommodations to vacationers. The visitors can then participate in some of the farming, while enjoying their getaway from their hectic non-rural lives. I think there are some economic advantages, like tax breaks and stuff, but I think in order to qualify they must still have a working farm, not just manicured rural land. I'll have to check on this, because I'm not sure, and would like to know more about it anyway!

Anyway, Spannocchia would absolutely qualify as an agriturismo. The current (Italian-American) owners had inherited the estate, and are currently in the process of restoring it. They are focused on maintaining it as a sustainable, organic working farm. They've got an internship program, where students (or really, anyone with 3 months free to spend!) work on the farm, in the garden, in the kitchen, etc., all the while learning about the traditions of Tuscany and sustainable, rural life.

There are also tons of programs and classes that come here: university classes, special interest classes, etc., that take advantage of this amazing, unique place.

Even as a tourist-guest, you get to immerse yourself to a certain extent in the philosophies and lifestyle of this place, and have special experiences to carry away with you!

I'll get more into the history and what exactly Spannocchia is later. :)