THE “VALLE DEL SABATO” AND THE SULPHUR MINES OF TUFO AND ALTAVILLAIRPINA

Abstract

Two the mining companies, two the properties, two the related factories: the Di Marzo and the SocietàAnonimaIndustrieMinerarie (SAIM); two the families, of noble origins, who contributed to the mid-1800s to radical changes in the Valley, including through a direct and personal relationship with social initiatives in favour of the working society. The phenomenon began a new era of development resulting in significant transformations in the social-economic structures and in the organization of the inhabitants. Along with tanning pole, sulphur mines soon became the flagship reality of entrepreneurship irpina, attracting the interest of other businessman and banking groups. The thriving mining went on until the early 1970 's when the international competition and of the oil companies made cheaper sulfur extraction for other routes. At present the Administration and municipalities concerned intended to start an enhancement of industrial archaeology, preparing a feasibility study for the use of such mines by large sections of the people. It is an immense historical, cultural, industrial and natural and anthropological heritage, that should not be lost; therefore the project of a geomining park of the sulphur mines of Tufo and AltavillaIrpina(Italy) can offer to local populations another opportunity for development. Pending its establishment, the production of DOCG wines with the presence of the Greco di Tufo, a white wine produced in the municipalities of the province of Avellino, including Tufo and AltavillaIrpina, continues to enhance the Irpinia territory.