Valle dei Cavalieri

Cooperativa di Comunità Valle dei Cavalieri, founded on January 26, 1991, in Succiso Nuovo in the Appennino Reggiano, is widely regarded as Italy’s first community cooperative. It was established to combat the progressive depopulation and economic decline of the area, with the aim of restoring essential services and creating opportunities for the local community.
Valle dei Cavalieri began its activities by reopening the local bar, recognizing its importance as a social hub where Succiso residents could gather and share moments of conviviality. It later expanded its offerings by opening a minimarket, providing access to essential goods, a restaurant, and a hospitality facility with around 40 beds to accommodate visitors seeking a short stay in Succiso.
Since 2007, the cooperative has also focused on sustainable tourism, enhancing the connection between the community, visitors, and the environment.
In 2001, the cooperative also earned the status of a social cooperative.
Thanks to these initiatives, Valle dei Cavalieri has become a symbol of resilience and innovation, attracting international delegations and earning prestigious recognition, including second place at the World Tourism Fair in Madrid in 2018.
Beyond its economic activities, the cooperative provides free services to the community, such as medication delivery, hospital visits, and grocery home delivery, preserving the spirit of solidarity that inspired its founding.
Today, Valle dei Cavalieri stands as a model of sustainable development, demonstrating how a shared vision can transform challenges into opportunities for the entire region.