The cooperative that saved the village of San Leo by reopening the bakery and minimarket

It all started with the bakery that Vittorio, the baker who had run it for over half a century, closed in 2019 to retire. It wasn't just a bakery, but a hub for the entire community of San Leo, the medieval village overlooking the Marecchia Valley in the province of Rimini.

La Fer-Menti Leontine cooperative, led by Samuele Nucci, 30, brought together a group of San Leo residents who attended school with Lorenzo Cagnoli, a famous local baker, and then reopened the village's historic bakery. The same pattern was repeated with the minimarket, owned by sisters Elisabetta and Rosalba Olei, who wanted to retire. The cooperative took over management, saving it from closure. Thus, between a bakery and a minimarket, the San Leo residents' cooperative became the driving force that saved the village from total depopulation and relaunched it as a cultural tourism destination, also featuring local restaurants. 

The latest initiative launched by the Fer-Menti cooperative is called "La Bottega Diffusa," and aims to combat depopulation in the Upper Marecchia Valley by creating positive connections between farmers, artisans, artists, residents, and tourists. Through a crowdfunding campaign, they're offering the opportunity to support this unique initiative and receive "sweet rewards" and unforgettable experiences in the charming village of San Leo. Campaign supporters will have the opportunity to experience a truly special holiday in the heart of San Leo. Among the experiences offered are: an aperitif in the historic village shop with local products, a romantic dinner in the historic center, and an exciting visit to a cashmere goat farm nearby. Also, creative ceramic and painting workshops, led by local artists and artisans, will allow you to discover the cultural and artistic richness of the village. 

Cover image source: Altarimini.it

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