Abruzzo and Molise: village awards and a new interregional governance

Abruzzo and Molise: awards for villages and new governance

April brought renewed attention to the villages of Abruzzo and Molise: several historic centres received national recognitions that raise their profile, and the interregional association revised its statute to improve promotion and coordination efforts.

Highlighted villages

Notable outcomes include awards celebrating sustainability, landscape protection and local regeneration projects:

• Villalago: ranked 11th in the "Il Borgo dei Borghi" competition, increasing interest in attractions such as the Gole del Sagittario and historic mills.
• Bugnara: placed 3rd in the "Innovative Village" category of the Livio Scattolini Prize, recognising regeneration and innovation projects.
• Anversa degli Abruzzi and Campli: awarded 2nd and 3rd place in the "Green Village" category for initiatives focused on environmental sustainability.

New governance: what changes

The interregional statute was updated to include a governing committee and a legislative committee. The revision aims to make the association more effective by:

• increasing operational capacity for village promotion;
• improving coordination among thematic groups (sustainability, experiential tourism, heritage protection);
• facilitating sharing of best practices and projects between municipalities.

Impact for visitors and local operators

These developments benefit both event organisers and visitors seeking authentic experiences. Practical tips:

• Check local event calendars for festivals, guided tours and cultural or environmental initiatives.
• Pick thematic routes (landscape trails, historic mills, green villages) to enhance the visit and support local economies.
• Join organised activities run by associations or municipalities to learn about restoration and innovation projects first-hand.

Summary

The awards received by villages in Abruzzo and Molise and the revised interregional governance are positive steps toward valorising local heritage: they boost visibility, encourage sustainable practices and foster collaboration between administrations and communities.