Roots Tourism: Irpinia selected to promote Italian origins

The convention for the "Roots Tourism" project was signed on 13 May 2026 at the Farnesina's International Conference Hall. Promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the initiative aims to encourage visits and the rediscovery of places of origin by Italian descendants, with positive spillovers for local economies.

Montefalcione and other communities in Irpinia were included among the beneficiary areas, recognizing the migratory history of the 20th century as a resource to foster sustainable development in small towns.

The initiative is funded through the PNRR and the Fund for Development and Cohesion (FSC) and targets over 80 million Italian descendants worldwide. Planned actions focus on strengthening hospitality, cultural routes and the territorial food and wine offering.

• Requalification of tourist paths and public spaces
• Upgrading of accommodation facilities and visitor services
• Promotion of local supply chains and gastronomy
• Communication projects to connect with communities of origin abroad

"Montefalcione carries the stories of thousands of emigrants," said Angelo Antonio D'Agostino, noting the project is a "concrete bridge to the future" for the involved villages. The agreement now enables design and implementation phases aimed at strengthening ties with the diaspora and increasing Irpinia's touristic appeal.