The biocultural diversity of Mongiana and its territory: historical roots, environmental heritage and local traditions in Southern Italy

This thesis, entitled 'The biocultural diversity of Mongiana and its territory: historical roots, environmental heritage and local traditions in Southern Italy', aims to be an in-depth study of a small village and its inhabitants in Calabria, Southern Italy. Mongiana is a village located at an altitude of 1,000 metres in the Serre Park, and its history is a great example of how we can be allies of nature rather than enemies. The research addresses the cultural history of Mongiana and its emergence as a steel manufacturing hub in the ancient Kingdom of the Bourbons, chosen for its unique natural characteristics. A second, more scientific section examines several renowned local sites that enable the conservation of flora and fauna and, more generally, biodiversity. The conclusions relate to folklore and the preservation of local practices and activities. Environmental Humanities have been the basis of my research in all its forms: from the exploitation of mineral resources to the living conditions of workers, to the conservation of natural biodiversity as well as cultural and linguistic biodiversity, which are now being lost. The methodology used is an anthropological and scientific approach that I carried out in the field for two weeks in August 2025. I conducted my research both in cultural locations, such as museums, and in natural sites such as parks and plant nurseries. As for the folkloric aspect, I experienced some local festivals first-hand and obtained various information from the inhabitants. For academic studies, I drew on many international authors such as Ernesto De Martino and Donna Haraway or Serenella Iovino and Adam Cohen, as well as local texts written by park authorities and experts. The research aims to be an archive and a starting point to discover Mongiana and its territories. Cultural and scientific resources could be useful for future generations and a driver of growth for the local areas. Given the constant migration, the prospects for these villages are unfortunately bleak, but if we look at the real situation, they are actually an example of a slower and more balanced pace of life, and greater attention to environmental and social sustainability. The story of Mongiana and the surrounding areas written here aims to be an example of how large-scale environmental and economic exploitation can also change for a better future.