The Italian Renaissance

Italy’s ancient villages are the cradle of local culture, yet many have suffered from dramatic depopulation over the past few decades. Italian property and sustainability company ITS ITALY explains what this means for the country

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO SAVE ITALY’S ANCIENT VILLAGES?

They’re fundamental to the country’s identity and represent the essence of Italian history. They’re also still thriving with an enormous wealth of art, gastronomy and artisanal produce, and each has its own unique community, views, colours and products. Thankfully, recent years have seen something of a rediscovery of their wonderful heritage and the high quality of living they offer, while investments have created better connectivity for young professionals and families.

HOW CAN UK TRAVELLERS SUPPORT THEIR REGENERATION?

For the same budget as a short break, travellers can purchase their own Italian property or invest in the redevelopment of a local business. This can seem like a lengthy and daunting process, but ITS ITALY helps to streamline this process, preparing the projects and customising them into turnkey assets. The platform also helps trigger investments into local businesses and, as a result, it has witnessed foreign visitors takeover the local social kitchen, own boutique bed and breakfasts and even revive the local vineyard and olive production into a fertile international business.

WHAT IS SO AMAZING ABOUT ITALY?

Italy means something different to everyone: art, sea, sun, world-class cuisine, a successful football team — its appeals are endless. And while Brexit has made moving to Italy a bit more complex for British citizens, there are now various packages for new residents that make the prospect more attainable.

WHERE WOULD ITS ITALY RECOMMEND TO INVEST IN ITALY?

Italy’s ancient villages aren’t just the ideal starting point from which to explore the country, they also offer the most authentic environment without breaking the bank. ITS ITALY now covers over 50 ancient villages across the country, including Lanusei, off the coast of Sardinia; Ginosa, located a stone’s throw away from cinematographic Matera; and Caprarica di Lecce in the heart of Salento. For more information about ITS ITALY’s programme, simply register online at itsfor.it