The green of the Mediterranean, the deep blue of the sea and the yellow of lemons... These are the colors that for centuries characterized the Amalfi Coast and give it an irresistible charm. Frescos in Pompeii and Herculaneum depict the lemons as ornamentals, witnessing the presence already in Roman times.
During the eleventh century, the lemon appears on the Amalfi Coast. On the "terrace", originally used to combat the hydrogeological risk phenomenon, preventing landslides and ensuring the safety of the inhabitants, born the first lemon.
The citrus trees were planted, as mentioned, on terraces, and to respond to atmospheric disturbances was used a kind of pergola supported by cthestnu poles and covered with "pagliarelle". These were mats about two meters wide, maded of straw bound with chestnut strips and placed on pergolas.
This method is still in use, even though the pagliarelle has almost disappeared, replaced by opaque nets that are more comfortable and practical.
Is known that at that time, the Amalfi sailors carrying large stocks of lemons on board their boats, used for medicinal purposes to prevent scurvy.
Thanks to its qualities, it soon becomes object of trade, in fact, at the beginning of 1400 he began his export, first throughout the European continent, then to land in the seaport of the world.
The quality of lemon coltivated at the time, is known as the "Femminiello Sfusato" or "Femminiello of Ravazzina". From this quality comes the "Sfusato of Amalfi," that you can find today in the terraces of the Amalfi Coast.
Particularly rich in citric acid and vitamin C, this lemon is considered unique in taste and smell, particularly suitable as ideal condiment for genuine recipes.
From the lemon skin you can obtain the limoncello; good liquor from the smell particularly inviting, to be enjoyed cold after meals.
The entity responsible for protecting the Sfusato Amalfitano is the Consortium for the protection of Limone Costa d'Amalfi IGP (www.limonecostadamalfiigp.com).
We advise you to check the presence of the trademark P.G.I. on the lemons and on the products derived from it. This mark guarantees the origin of the lemons and the use of traditional rules of cultivation.
