A remarkable community thrives in the heart of Sardinia, where rugged cliffs meet azure waters. Asphodel, a collective of Italian beekeepers, has woven together unique cultural practices, tradition, innovation, and a deep love for their island's wild beauty.
Asphodel emerged in early 2020 - a beacon of hope and resilience in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. These social entrepreneurs understood that the climate crisis demanded swift, local action, and they were ready to answer the call. And so, against the backdrop of ancient olive groves and fragrant maquis, they embarked on a remarkable journey.
![Asphodel apiary](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6691659bd67977277fe7e649/679c0150fcf15c7c8b72b125_679bffeffb525f51d489e633_C719B990-CB6A-44AC-9244-3309025F730E_1_105_c.avif)
Their honey is not just a sweet treat, but a symphony of flavors—a testament to Sardinia's unique flora. Among their treasures, such as bramble and asphodel honey, corbezzolo (strawberry) honey shines brightest. This rare gem, found only on the island, whispers of sun-kissed blossoms and windswept hills, inviting you to experience its unique taste and health benefits.
![Asphodel experience](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6691659bd67977277fe7e649/679c01980672bbf086417c16_679c00af2fca4ca5a26f8037_12FD961F-1BF8-4461-83EE-F7BAF725CAB8_1_105_c-768x1020.avif)
Sardinia, home to one of the world's five Blue Zones, is a place where people live longer, healthier lives. Asphodel's honey, far from being just a sweet indulgence, is a vital elixir in this health-conscious community. Their bees, free from pesticides and artificial feeds, produce liquid gold that nourishes centenarians. According to Maurizio Pitzolu, Asphodel’s founder, their honey is unique “because we only produce in remote places, with spontaneous vegetation and without ever feeding the bees artificially (which is unfortunately now uncommon).”
Asphodel is not just a beekeeping collective, it's a pioneer of Apivoltaico—an ingenious fusion of beekeeping and renewable energy. Their beehives nestle alongside photovoltaic plants, a harmonious dance of nature and technology. Bees hum, solar panels gleam, and biodiversity thrives, showcasing Asphodel's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Asphodel's ethos rests on three pillars: trust, reciprocity, and gratuitousness. It empowers small beekeepers and provides a sustainable market that doesn't compromise on quality. Maurizio proudly refers to Asphodel’s honey as “sustainable by nature,” free from “chemical substances, neither in treatments nor in any component of our production chain.”