[Val d'Orcia, Italy] The cypresses that led pilgrims to Rome

#FreeHotelStay The green scenery of Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was even more beautiful than I had imagined. This greenery may seem like just a plain, but it's actually wheat and pasture grass. Locals use this wheat to make pasta and beer. This spectacular view began when farmers cultivated the once barren Val d'Orcia. Deep-rooted plants such as wheat, olives, and cypresses took root in the clay soil that was not suitable for farming. The rich food and beautiful scenery of Tuscany are the result of trial and error by our predecessors. Cypresses were planted as windbreaks and landmarks for pilgrims who passed through Val d'Orcia on their way to Rome. The shape of the cypresses, which resemble hands clasped together, is likened to a prayer. The view changes completely depending on the weather, so it's worth visiting again and again.