The rich
history of the Herdade da Comporta has left visible marks on the landscape. The
estate has switched to environmentally friendly farming techniques and the
region is now one of the greenest, most harmonious and sustainable in Europe.
The rice farming, which started here in the 20th century, became the
most notable aspect of local identity and a real icon of the Estate. Rice plays
an important role in the local cuisine. All rice is cultivated according to
integrated production standards: environmentally friendly production with restricted
use of pesticides. This form of rice-growing has been certified by independent
authorities.
Although
the lush green of this crop dominates a considerable part of the landscape, new
agricultural products have been introduced, such as turf, pine nuts and sweet
potatoes.
