The Poggio ai Laghi winery is indeed located along the Francigena route, precisely near Monteriggioni.
On February 4th, 1001, Donna Ava, the widow of Ildebrando, Lord of Staggia, founded the Benedictine monastery of Abbadia Isola together with her sons Tegrimo and Berizo.
History and Legend of Donna Ava and her Handmaids
On February 4th, 1001, Donna Ava, the widow of Ildebrando, Lord of Staggia, founded the Benedictine monastery of Abbadia Isola together with her sons Tegrimo and Berizo.
Legend has it that since the Middle Ages, Donna Ava cared for her people through her seven handmaids, each possessing a special gift.
Legend tells of each Handmaid possessing a special Gift
Firmina had the gift of Love, Aranda Happiness, Lucilla Freedom, Oletta Time, Arella Well-Being, Arania Harmony, and Nina Communion.
The wines of Poggio ai Laghi are dedicated to Donna Ava and her handmaids.
This story and legend are being brought to light by the company through studies and research in collaboration with the Municipality of Monteriggioni and the Department of Medieval History of the University of Siena.
Wine and Art: Poggio ai Laghi Labels are designed by a Local Artist
Poggio ai Laghi has chosen to collaborate with artists to design the label for our wines, creating unique labels that can become collectible pieces. The labels for the wines dedicated to Donna Ava and her seven handmaids (Lucilla, Oletta, Nina, Arania, Aranda, Arella, and Firmina) are drawn by the talented local artist Maria Chiara Viviani.
She envisioned the faces of these eight women, which she then incorporated into a mural that served as inspiration for the labels.
The faces of these eight women, which she then incorporated into a mural that served as inspiration for the labels.
