Tuscany is no stranger to vineyards. It’s one of the best wine regions in the world. But vineyards on airports are new for one of the oldest wine regions. Come 2026, Amerigo Vespucci Airport in Florence will be home to a 19-acre vineyard that will slope upwards toward the new international terminal and sit above it, on its roof. 

The groundbreaking slope will include 38 rows of productive vineyards meaning that this green roof isn’t just for aesthetic purposes. Grapes grown on the terminal roof will be cultivated and harvested by leading vitners from the region and wine will be produced and aged on-site in specialised cellars. 

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Project architects, Rafael Vinoly Architects, are hoping to bring a more sustainable vision to city landmarks with this unique project. 

“This enormous surface, which hides the airport terminal when viewed from Brunelleschi’s Duomo and other prominent vantage points in the city, will not only serve as a new landmark for the city’s sustainable future but also as a symbol of the traditions, history and innovative spirit that continue to drive the Italian economy into the 21st Century,” the architects note in an announcement of the project on their website.

The first phase of the project will be completed in 2026, according to ArchDaily. The second will be in 2035. The project will revitalise the airport exterior and interior with hopes of transforming Florence’s airport to make it easier to navigate for locals and tourists as well as make it easier on the eye.

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