02/10/2026
Have you ever come across a Burraia and wondered what it was once used for? 🌿
Hidden in the Bosco della Burraia, this small underground structure tells a story deeply connected to Tuscan rural life.
For centuries, shepherds and farmers needed a way to process and preserve milk while their animals grazed far from the main farm. When fresh milk could not be transported quickly, places like this became essential for making and preserving butter and cheese.
In 2017, we discovered this hypogeal structure in the forest. At first, we thought it was simply a water source for the nearby Podere. But its internal well, brick basin and position close to the stream suggested something different.
By comparing it with similar structures found in Tuscany, it is believed that this was once a Burraia.
Nearby, on the right bank of the Borro delle Fosse stream, there is also an older stone well, thought to date back to the 1600s, probably used as an early water supply for the Podere.
Around the 1800s, the need to work and preserve milk close to the grazing areas likely led to the construction of the Burraia itself: underground, north-facing and close to running water, with an internal well connected to a brick basin where cool groundwater could flow slowly and help keep the milk at a lower temperature.
A small place, but one that preserves centuries of rural knowledge, work and Tuscan tradition. ✨
Discover the Burraia and the stories hidden in our forest during your stay at Podere La Casina.
📍 Strada Comunale Vecchia Senese 199
Rigomagno, Sinalunga 53048
BOOK NOW 👉 www.poderelacasina.com
