Calabrian villages on the rise: mayors' strategies to counter

Calabrian villages on the rise: mayors' strategies to counter depopulation

In several areas of Calabria, local administrations are implementing practical measures to reactivate historic centres and fight abandonment. The shared goal is to turn cultural heritage into sustainable resources, while overcoming infrastructure and service gaps.

Local examples

• S Pietro a Maida (Catanzaro): the historic centre, including the Mother Church of San Nicola and noble palaces, has become a gathering point thanks to events and youth-focused activities that strengthen community ties.
• San Nicola da Crissa (Vibo Valentia): a village in the Serre area with stone architectures and an ancient church; culture here is considered an immaterial infrastructure to protect and use as a lever for local development.
• Malvito (Cosenza): a medieval village with a castle and churches that attracts international visitors but faces limits in resources and infrastructure to consolidate its tourism offer.

Recommended practical actions

• Road maintenance and signage: routine works to ensure stable and safe connections year-round.
• Enhanced essential services: improve water supply, waste collection, local transport and connectivity to make villages livable beyond peak seasons.
• Event promotion: support cultural and community events that engage young people and draw visitors.
• Targeted hospitality: develop information packages and services for foreign visitors seeking authentic local experiences.
• Village networks: promote integrated routes among nearby centers to share resources and boost overall appeal.
• Volunteer engagement: activate associations and citizens for site care and event management.

Civic participation and coordinated actions among institutions can strengthen long-term outcomes, but without targeted investments in infrastructure and services the ability of villages to attract tourism and new activities remains limited. Coordinated strategies and directed funding are essential to consolidate the revival of Calabria's historic centres.