Beyond Real Estate: A Movement to Revitalize Europe’s Abandoned Villages
A growing trend sees abandoned villages across Europe-especially in Italy, Spain, and Portugal-being purchased and reimagined, but one association argues the focus must extend beyond mere investment and embrace community-led revitalization.
the phenomenon gained significant attention today with coverage in The New York Times‘ DealBook newsletter, penned by Brent Crane. The article highlights the increasing interest in transforming these forgotten spaces into retreats, corporate off-site locations, and immersive experiences. While acknowledging the positive attention,a representative from ITS Italy asserts that the current narrative overlooks a crucial element: the peopel.
“It’s nice to be noticed, it’s nice to be recognized,” a spokesperson stated, reflecting on the New York Times coverage. “It’s nice that such an authoritative newspaper intercepts a work that we’ve been carrying out for years away from the spotlight.” Tho, they emphasize that the organization’s mission extends far beyond simply “transforming places” in a real estate sense.
ITS Italy was founded with the goal of bringing people back to these dwindling communities and creating better life opportunities for both new residents and those who remain. The organization’s approach prioritizes the existing community-mayors, associations, and long-term residents-working collaboratively to determine how territories can sustainably welcome newcomers, not just tourists.
The focus isn’t on attracting those seeking a picturesque “sweet life,” but rather individuals willing to embrace a slower, more complex lifestyle and contribute to the fabric of the community. This includes attracting returning Italian residents seeking a “second chance,” rather than simply nostalgia. Real estate considerations-rent, purchase, investment-come after assessing the community’s needs and capacity.
This philosophy is deeply rooted in the thinking of Giancarlo Dall’ara, who for decades has cautioned that hospitality, when disconnected from the territory, risks turning villages into mere “scenography”-stunning but ultimately empty spaces.”Beautiful” but empty villages, frequented but not experienced.
While acknowledging the value of restoring old buildings and creating resorts, ITS Italy prioritizes collaboration with hospitality models that nurture places, rather than simply consume them. The organization points to Masseria Torre Luciana, an ancient farmhouse transformed into a well-being center focused on yoga, sound healing, and mindful living, as an example of a project that genuinely dialogues w
Why is this happening? Decades of rural depopulation, driven by economic factors, left many European villages abandoned. Now, a desire for a slower pace of life, coupled with remote work opportunities and affordable real estate, is attracting new residents.
Who is involved? ITS Italy is a key organization advocating for community-led revitalization. Local mayors, residents, and investors are also central to the process. The New York times recently brought wider attention to the trend.
What is being done? Villages are being purchased and renovated, but ITS Italy emphasizes prioritizing the needs of existing communities and attracting residents who will contribute to the local fabric, not just consume it. Projects like Masseria Torre Luciana demonstrate a nurturing approach to hospitality.
How did it end? The revitalization isn’t “ending” but evolving. The core message, now amplified by increased media attention, is that the rebirth of these places isn’t a fleeting trend, but a matter of building meaningful relations. Villages don’t revive because of investment alone; they come back to life when someone chooses to care for them.
