Forests created or improved Five Oaks Forest
Why did we support this forest?
The Five Oaks Forest is an ancient and renowned forest. Its name derives from the fact that the forest is home to the five species of oak trees typical of the Sienese woods.
History of the forest
Five Oaks Forest gets its name from the five types of oak that grow there: Turkey oak, English oak, Downy oak, another English oak, and Holm oak. Located in Monteaperti, on the outskirts of Siena, Five Oaks Forest is an ancient and well-known forest, as noted by Emanuele Repetti in his Dizionario Geografico Fisico Storico della Toscana (Historical Physical Geographical Dictionary of Tuscany), published between 1832 and 1845. The forest is bordered to the east by the Arbia River, which Dante Alighieri made famous in his description of the bloody Battle of Montaperti in 1260, where the Ghibellines of Siena defeated the Guelphs of Florence. Five Oaks Forest likely served as a hiding spot, refuge, and outpost for counterattacks for the Sienese troops of that era. Once an important resource for the region, this forest has been neglected for over 15 years. Lack of care has led to the degradation of vegetation, soil erosion, and a decline in biodiversity over time. In 2020, the Rugani-Bencini family decided to revive this space by purchasing it with a clear goal: to transform it into a multifunctional forest that benefits the environment and the local community.
Where is the forest located?
How we improved the forest
Thanks to the support of residents and companies, we began creating a food forest on 3 hectares of previously unused land. A food forest mimics the structure of natural forests, bringing together trees, shrubs, herbs, and medicinal plants to form a productive and resilient ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Approximately 2,600 plants were planted, representing around 50 different species, including fruit trees, shrubs, medicinal herbs, and berries, chosen for their adaptability and ecological significance.
The project includes ongoing maintenance and irrigation during the initial years to promote healthy plant growth and facilitate the new forest’s complete development. When mature, the food forest will help prevent soil erosion, provide habitat for many species, and serve as a welcoming space for the community.
The forest will be open to the public for walking, biking, or horseback riding, with trail networks and amenities designed for recreation, environmental education, and slow tourism. Five Oaks Forest aims to be an ideal place for visitors to explore Siena’s natural landscapes and enjoy authentic nature experiences. It will be managed in accordance with standards for sustainability and responsibility, ensuring long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits.
News from the forest
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