The province of Pavia is the leading producer of rice in Italy and Europe, so much so that the plain comprising Lomellina and Bassa Pavese is referred to as the ‘land of rice’. Originally, however, the area was marshy and partly arid, and it was only from the Middle Ages, with the introduction of rice into the Lombard markets, and then in the late 15th century, thanks to the promotion of rice cultivation and agronomic reforms by Galeazzo Maria Sforza, that the conformation of the land changed, enriched with canals and irrigation ditches. Today, the fertile flooded rice paddies transform the landscape into a checkered sea, on which the numerous farmsteads and castles in the area are reflected, along with the fauna made up of birds such as herons, ibis and ducks. The species and ecosystems typical of Lomellina are protected by a dense network of protected areas (reserves, natural monuments and Natura 2000 sites), located mainly at the garzaie (the herons’ breeding sites). This area is also the home of Carnaroli rice, known as the ‘prince of rices’, ideal for risottos. The landscape thus offers a unique panorama for walking, cycling and taking photographs.