The Montado is a unique and sustainable agroforestry ecosystem of the Iberian Peninsula. Its origins date back to the Neolithic period, when the first agricultural communities began modifying the landscape to create pastures and arable land. This process resulted in an ecosystem that protects the soil, regulates water resources, and combats desertification. Additionally, it supports rural communities by creating jobs and preserving traditional practices. The Montado is also a space for leisure and sustainable tourism, fostering a connection between people, nature, and environmental education.
The acorn, the fruit of the cork oak and holm oak, plays a key role in the ecological, economic, and social balance of the Montado. The trees that produce acorns capture carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. Moreover, acorns are a vital food source for local wildlife, sustaining rich biodiversity. Traditionally, they were an essential resource for feeding Iberian pigs, influencing the quality of their meat. Today, acorns are gaining recognition in human nutrition, being used in flour, coffee substitutes, and oils, as well as in innovative applications in cosmetics and bioplastics.
Valuing acorns and the Montado is crucial for both ecological and economic sustainability, ensuring the preservation of this unique system where humans and nature coexist in harmony.
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