Apodea founders Marco and Ornella Rossi both worked in graphic art in Milan prior to discovering the Umbria region at the end of the '70s during a blissful summer with friends staying in an ancient former convent. Interested in biodynamic farming, the young family moved to Umbria in search of a country life and home to bring up the children. They restored a farmhouse and prepared six hectares of land, becoming active proponents of biodynamic farming in the region.
Marco's beekeeping and Ornella's increasing knowledge of plant properties led to the creation of natural cosmetics. The first was Propolis Ointment or balm made from purely biodynamic, organic ingredients and containing 10% propolis. Originally it was produced just for family and friends, particularly one of the kids who had sensitive skin irritation. The Demeter certified multi-purpose, propolis balm is a best-seller years later and Apodea is an established family business.
Gradually a variety of Apodea skincare cosmetics were developed with cosmetic laboratories, all with the benefits of Apodea apiary products - honey, propolis, beeswax. These were produced on a small commercial scale, becoming popular locally in Italy. By now Ornella and Marco have reached the stage of wanting to focus on skincare where there is no compromise on organic content and quality, optimal use of bee products, and sustainable principles even if this means a streamlined range. As Apodea is discovered by people from other countries, products from this select organic range are becoming cult skincare items and user favourites. Nevertheless, production continues to be as local as possible and in small batches, each item (depending on type) certified to Demeter biodynamic organic or ICEA organic standards.
Apodea's Bee Goddess Emblem
Marco continues to be an artist (known especially for children's book illustration in Italy) and the image of the Apodea emblem - a welcoming 'bee goddess' with flowers based on an Egyptian hieroglyph - was decided even before the Apodea name was chosen.
Verdealloggio Agriturismo
The farm, Verdealloggio, also serves as a rustic centre for painting workshops and events and if you like the idea of a relaxing country stay, from spring to late summer it's even possible to rent the pink cottage (featured here and on the Umbria page) which is divided into two apartments as an Agriturismo. See Verdealloggio website for information.
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