Italy is known for its picturesque villages, from hilltop hamlets with medieval castles to coastal resorts with fishing-boat-filled bays. The association ‘i borghi più belli d’Italia’ celebrates and preserves these tiny treasures, with a total of 371 villages on the list. In 2024, new entries were added, offering visitors a chance to explore lesser-known destinations and escape the overtourism of cities like Venice and Florence. One such village is Rassa, a pocket-sized hamlet in Piedmont, surrounded by mountains and blanketed in snow in winter. The village offers a peaceful retreat for hikers and those seeking a taste of mountain charm.
Another village worth visiting is Bagolino in Lombardy, known for its production of ‘bagòss’, an aged cheese flavored with saffron. The village also boasts art treasures in the church of San Giorgio, with masterpieces by the renowned Venetian artist Tintoretto. Bagolino comes alive in February during the annual carnival, where residents parade in historic dress, play music, and dance through the narrow streets. Bertinoro in Romagna offers panoramic views of Forlì and Cesena, as well as the sea, from its lofty position. The village celebrates its values of hospitality through the Colonna delle Anelle festival, welcoming guests with musical events, parades, and religious services.
Mulazzo, located in the Lunigiana hills, is known for hosting the Florentine poet Dante during his exile. Visitors can follow the Via Dantis, a walking route with nine stops representing the nine circles of hell from the Divine Comedy. The village comprises several small hamlets, each with its own unique charm. Ripatransone, in the Piceno hills, is famous for being home to the narrowest alley in Italy. Visitors can explore the monumental Cathedral of San Gregorio Magno with its impressive bell tower and enjoy sweeping views over the Gran Sasso massif and the Adriatic sea.
Gravina in Puglia is a village known for its karst ravines and caves, similar to the more famous Matera. The town’s architecture is partially hewn from the rock base, giving it a unique and ancient feel. Visitors can explore the 11th-century cathedral and the Chiesa Rupestre di San Michele delle Grotte, which is home to a macabre pile of skulls and bones said to belong to martyrs. The town’s arched bridge over the river was featured in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’, adding to its allure as a hidden gem in Italy. By exploring these lesser-known villages and attractions, visitors can contribute to the preservation of Italy’s rich cultural heritage while also escaping the crowds and enjoying a more authentic travel experience.
