The region’s numerous food specialists have made the province a destination for tourists from around the world
hanks
to the activities of giant enterprises like Ferrero – manufacturers
of Nutella spread and Ferrero Rocher chocolates – and the local
people’s enthusiasm for setting up small businesses, the province
of Cuneo has become Italy’s biggest exporter.
|
||
“We
are number one in Italy when it comes to companies – 84,000 companies
are members of the Chamber of Commerce,” says Cuneo’s president,
Giovanni Quaglia. “As
Cuneo has just 550,000 inhabitants, there is one business for every
six or seven people – children and over-80s included.”
Many are in the food and beverage trade, with wine and cheese in the
vanguard. Names like Castelmagno and Barolo are well-known the world
over. Numerous gastronomic products have been awarded DOC certificates
of origin, guaranteeing authenticity and quality.
“It
is important to remember that, over the past 10 years, a great network
of small and medium-sized enterprises have been developing in the food
industry, beyond the giant firms like Ferrero in Alba or Maina and Balocco
in Fossano,” says Mr Quaglia. “This network has its headquarters
in the Langhe and Roero areas, and specialises in the production of
high-quality food and wine.”
Cuneo’s gastronomic attractions have boosted the province’s
tourist trade, particularly around Alba. “Each year, hundreds of
thousands of tourists come from all over the world, attracted by our
traditions, the local cuisine or the wine,” says Mr Quaglia. “Important
cultural events, like the Castelli Aperti (Open Castles) initiative
are linked to the sector.”
 |
| Culture and nature: Cuneo has more than 50 castles and other significant historic buildings open to the public, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Alps |
There
are more than 50 castles, abbeys, towers, villas and other monuments
open to the public in Cuneo province, while the town of Cuneo itself
boasts numerous fine buildings and famous covered arcades. In winter,
the snow-covered peaks of the lower Alps make a stunning backdrop to
the provincial capital’s skyline.
“Cuneo is full of culture, art and environmental beauty, as well
as lively traditional and folkloric events,” says Mr Quaglia. “You
have the gentle hills of the Langhe and the valleys at the feet of the
Alps. Hiking in these areas is especially appealing, and forms another
primary resource in our tourist sector.”
There are more than 2,000 kilometres of mountain paths and mule tracks
in the province, with a number of refreshment stops and refuges along
the way. But Mr Quaglia admits that Cuneo’s transport network needs
improvement.
“The
development of transport links is vital for the growth of the province’s
economy,” he says. “This objective must be achieved. Being
able to count on efficient motorways enables the goods that we produce
locally to be competitive on the international market. Better transport
links can only enhance our export success and the ‘Made in Cuneo’
label.”
Mr Quaglia would also like Cuneo to have a higher profile in Britain,
particularly for wine production and tourism. “If you want to experience
intense emotions about environmental beauty, the quality of life and
the fabulous gastronomy, then you should come here and try them.”
[email protected]