Nestled in the lush, sandy soil of Partinico, Sicily, the Augustali estate is steeped in history, innovation, and natural beauty. The land’s story begins as early as the 13th century when Frederick II of Swabia, an emperor renowned for his love of nature and innovation, declared the area ideal for hunting. He was captivated by its fertile soil, abundant gardens, and plentiful water, which gave rise to a thriving agricultural tradition. Today, the land’s reddish soil continues to nourish an array of crops, just as it has for centuries.
From Heritage to Vision, Tthe Augustali farm, named after the first gold coin introduced by Frederick II, carries forward a legacy of Sicilian heritage and innovation. The coin, known as the “Augustale,” symbolized a shift from iron-based trade to a golden standard, echoing the emperor’s pioneering spirit. The farm’s logo—an eagle crafted in mosaic—is inspired by the exquisite artistry of Sicily’s medieval cathedrals in Monreale, Cefalù, and Palermo, which flourished under Frederick’s patronage.
The farm’s modern chapter began with a vision shared by a couple passionate about agriculture and family values. While the founder’s grandfather managed the land in traditional Sicilian fashion—a private domain with gates firmly shut to outsiders—the current owners took a different path. With a teaching background and a desire to create a family-centered environment, they transformed the estate into an educational farm.
Sicily’s First Educational Farm. Established 12 years ago, Augustali became the first educational farm in western Sicily. The concept was simple yet transformative: a space where families could learn, play, and connect with nature. The owners saw the farm not just as a business, but as a platform to share the importance of sustainable practices and biodiversity. At the heart of this initiative is the presence of bees. As a beekeeper, the founder emphasizes the critical role of bees in maintaining ecological balance. Visitors are introduced to the fascinating world of beekeeping and learn about the essential contributions of these tiny pollinators to the environment. This educational approach has made the farm a beloved destination for schools, families, and tourists.
From Olives to Vines: Expanding Horizons, while the educational farm was the initial focus, the family’s diverse agricultural interests soon led to further developments. The fertile land of Augustali has long supported vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards. Lemon trees, a hallmark of Sicilian agriculture, thrive alongside other crops.
As the founder’s husband is a winemaker, it was only natural for the farm to venture into winemaking. Today, the Augustali winery stands as a testament to their shared vision. Balancing the educational farm and the winery, the family has created a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The winery’s production reflects the unique characteristics of the local terroir. Just four kilometers from the sea, the vineyards benefit from salty winds that impart a distinctive flavor to the wines. Among their offerings, the Grillo wine, aptly named Il Mare (The Sea), captures the essence of this coastal influence.
Harvest and heritage, the rhythm of life at Augustali follows the cycles of nature. The grape harvest, completed just a month ago, and the olive harvest, finished mere days ago, mark the culmination of months of hard work. The farm’s 16 hectares, including seven dedicated to vineyards, yield a variety of red and white wines that embody the land’s richness.Each element of the farm—from the bees and citrus trees to the vines and olives—tells a story of resilience, innovation, and respect for nature. Guided by the enduring legacy of Frederick II and the family’s unwavering dedication, Augustali continues to flourish as a beacon of Sicilian tradition and modernity.
A name rooted in history, we might said, because the choice of the name Augustali reflects the family’s deep connection to Sicilian history. By embracing a name with historical significance rather than opting for a purely imaginative title, they honor the land’s storied past while forging a future filled with promise.
Through their efforts, the Augustali farm has become more than just a place of agriculture; it is a living tribute to the heritage, culture, and natural beauty of Sicily. Whether savoring their wines, exploring the educational farm, or simply enjoying the serene landscape, visitors are invited to experience the essence of Augustali: a legacy cultivated in fertile soil and nurtured by visionary hands.
