Spring in the Villages: April 19th Event to Rediscover Italy’s Small

Spring in the Villages: a day to celebrate small towns

Italy's small towns hold rich history, landscapes and customs but face pressures like depopulation and environmental risks. On April 19th, "Spring in the Villages" brings together activities across the country – from special openings to guided tours and nature walks – to introduce visitors to lesser-known places with a sustainability focus.

Why join

The initiative aims to highlight small towns as territorial assets: cultural offerings, biodiversity and local hospitality. Attending supports local economies, reveals hidden heritage and encourages more responsible travel choices.

What to expect

• Access to monuments and historic sites that are often closed or little visited;
• Guided tours and themed routes led by local experts;
• Nature walks and hikes through typical Appennine landscapes and rural areas;
• Workshops and activities focused on traditional crafts, local food and storytelling;
• Discussions and meetings on territory protection and regeneration.

Practical tips for visitors

• Check the local program: many events are run by associations and municipal offices;
• Use sustainable transport or local shuttle services when available;
• Respect the sites: avoid littering and follow organizers' instructions;
• Support local businesses by choosing local products and services;
• For hikes, wear proper footwear, carry water and inform someone about your route.

Rethinking the role of villages

Beyond tourism, Spring in the Villages encourages a broader debate on territorial policies: risk prevention, building conservation, essential services and development models that make internal areas livable and productive. The aim is to turn vulnerabilities into strengths through distributed, inclusive and place-based strategies.

To take part, look up the program for the village you want to visit and follow local cultural organizations' updates: getting involved is the first step toward supporting the revival of Italy's small towns.