Local Ambassador Stories: Elia, Organic Eggs in San Casciano dei Bagni

A new life among the Tuscan hills

Starting a new path is never easy, but for Elia, moving to Tuscany was a choice guided by the desire to give value to small local producers and to start an agricultural project respectful of the environment and animal welfare. This is exactly the focus of the new series of interviews with Local Ambassadors, young custodians who reinterpret their territory with creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Originally from Padua and raised in a family of agricultural entrepreneurs specialized in poultry farming, Elia witnessed firsthand the transformations of the sector: from small retailers to large supermarkets, up to the changing eating habits of consumers. “Once everyone had their own chicken coop. today that’s no longer the case. I remember my father used to raise 100,000 ducks a year: unthinkable today.”

From the Venetian Plains to the Hills of Celle sul Rigo

In the 2000s, the arrival of avian flu deeply affected the poultry sector in Northern Italy. “Since then, I’ve always had in mind a project linked to organic eggs, but it wasn’t possible to make it happen for health reasons.”

In 2019–2020, driven by the pandemic and a desire for a fresh start, Elia decided to move to Tuscany, one of the most pristine regions of Italy from both a natural and zootechnical point of view. In Celle sul Rigo, in the municipality of San Casciano dei Bagni, he found the ideal farm for his dream: a place surrounded by nature, free from other farms, where he could work peacefully and safely.
“The structure was originally focused on pigeon production, typical of Tuscan cuisine, but I completely transformed it to host my organic laying hens.”

Animal Welfare and Mozart’s Music

Today, Elia raises hens in a healthy and spacious environment where every detail is designed for their wellbeing: “My work began with adapting the structure, installing strong fencing to protect against wild animals like foxes, martens, and boars. Then I added a sort of veranda for the hens, especially useful in mid-season periods. The climate is extremely variable now, and this way they can stay outside but sheltered. My hens have plenty of space and grass, and having a covered area helps a lot. Hens naturally like to be outdoors as much as possible, and I can ensure that for them, which protects both the hens and the eggs I sell.”

No antibiotics, only organic grains, and plenty of green space. But the farm’s distinctive feature is something else: classical music. “My hens listen to Mozart. I was inspired by farms in Northern Italy where they observed increased wellbeing in dairy cows thanks to music. I spoke with veterinarians who confirmed that, emotionally and psychologically, music makes a difference. After all, when we’re having a bad day, listening to our favorite song can turn things around. My hens benefit from it — they’re calmer, and it shows in the quality of the eggs.”

The Quality of Organic Eggs

Elia sells his eggs directly at three weekly markets, between Valdichiana and Rome, where he also shares his story. “For example, I often find myself explaining that eggs shouldn’t be washed, or why I carefully clean the ones I sell. I like the idea of spreading knowledge and sparking curiosity among my customers. The best part is seeing people come back week after week because they can tell the difference, especially when they use the eggs: the whites are dense and compact, perfect for meringues, and they don’t have that typical ‘fresh smell’ many people know.”

His hens produce non-fertilized eggs, ideal even for those following a vegetarian diet. Production is growing: “I’m expanding the farm to 2,000 hens, but my goal remains the same, to ensure their real wellbeing, not just meet standards on paper. I’m convinced of what I do because I see it in my hens. Everyone asks, ‘What do you feed them?’ But I think that little by little, people will understand that animal welfare depends not only on diet, but also on cleanliness, space, air quality, and even the music they hear. Every detail makes a difference, and anyone who tastes my eggs realizes it.”

New Roots in the Valdichiana Senese

Elia speaks with gratitude about the community that welcomed him: “The people of Celle sul Rigo and San Casciano welcomed me with curiosity and then affection. Today, I feel part of this valley. I collaborate with many local businesses in and around San Casciano dei Bagni, and I’m very happy to receive visits from chefs who come to see the farm. There’s great cooperation and transparency.”

The farm can be visited: “I love showing how I work, even if during some periods, like when new hens arrive, it requires total dedication. Sometimes I even stay with them at night to make sure they settle in well.”

The Local Ambassador’s Favorite Place

“My favorite place in the Valdichiana Senese is, without a doubt, the area around my farm, the valley between Celle sul Rigo and San Casciano dei Bagni: it has a truly unique view.”