Our story

From an idea to a community project

It all started with a place and with people who believed in it. A journey born in the heart of the Presila Catanzarese, in Pentone, with the conviction that cooperative work could make a difference.

2020

The idea takes shape

A group of people with strong ties to the Presila Catanzarese come together around a shared vision: to bring out the value of the natural, cultural and craft resources of this mountain area through cooperative work.

The Presila — with its forests, pastures and craft traditions — becomes the starting point of an ambitious project.

2021

The cooperative is born

Le Cinque Icone is formally established as a Community Cooperative. The founding members launch the first activities: the apiary and the traditional weaving workshop come to life.

Choosing the cooperative model was no accident: it reflects the will to build an enterprise rooted in the community and focused on the common good.

2022

Growth and new activities

The apiary expands. Blueberries and other small fruits start being grown in the fields of the Presila. The first guided tourism experiences begin: hikes, workshops and nature trails.

Word spreads: the artisan products of Le Cinque Icone start to become known beyond the local area.

2023

Going digital

The cooperative begins its digital journey: an online shop, a presence on social media and participation in regional and national fairs to make the brand known.

An important step to bring the Presila Catanzarese beyond the borders of Calabria.

2024

Consolidation

The network of partners and collaborators grows. New members join the project. Activities become established and the cooperative strengthens its presence in the area.

2025

New horizons

We keep growing, building networks with other local organisations and developing new products and services for the local community and for visitors to the Presila.

The five icons

The values that guide us

Our name says it all: five founding principles that shape our choices every day.

Community
I

Community

The cooperative exists for and with the local community.

Territory
II

Territory

Enhancing the natural and cultural resources of the Presila.

Work
III

Work

Creating decent, stable jobs in our area.

Tradition
IV

Tradition

Preserving and passing on local knowledge and practices.

Sustainable innovation
V

Sustainable innovation

Looking to the future with methods that respect the environment.

Want to be part of the story?

Le Cinque Icone grows thanks to the people who believe in the project. Discover our activities or write to us.