Aiello Calabro joins Italy's 'Most Beautiful Villages': Calabrian

Aiello Calabro joins the 'Most Beautiful Villages of Italy': mayors appeal 'Do not leave us alone'

Aiello Calabro's official inclusion in the 'Most Beautiful Villages of Italy', celebrated last Sunday, became an occasion for Calabrian mayors to highlight the issue of depopulation in inland areas. Dozens of local leaders emphasized shortages in essential services and the distance of institutional support.

The discussion combined concern over demographic decline with pride in local traditions, culture and cuisine—assets for sustainable tourism. Mayors called for concrete measures to ensure the future of their communities.

• Main demands: increased and targeted funding;
• strengthening of essential services and local schools;
• policies and incentives to retain young people and encourage returnees;
• investment in digital infrastructure and transport to reduce isolation.

As noted by the president of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy, the recognition can boost authentic tourism, but symbolic acclaim must be followed by coordinated public investment to have lasting impact.