Public Project
Barroso: An Ancient Farming Culture in Northern Portugal Becomes a World Heritage
In 2018 the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations denominated the Barroso a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS), which distinguishes areas "characterized by remarkable agrobiodiversity, traditional knowledge, invaluable cultures, and landscapes, sustainably managed by farmers, herders, fisherfolk, and forest people in ways that contribute to their livelihoods and food security”., the second region to receive such designation in Europe.
The title was a morale booster for residents, who saw an opportunity to benefit from the new status by certifying their products as Protected Designation of Origin to highlight the environmentally friendly way in which they are produced. They also saw an opportunity to take advantage of the fact that Portugal became one of the hottest touristic destinations in Europe to promote their region as a prime location for eco-tourism.
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