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Euronews
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Euronews
These 5 villages have been crowned the most beautiful in Italy
Italy's countryside is peppered with villages rich in architectural marvels, gastronomic delights and arcane cultural traditions. Each year, these little-known treasures compete for national recognition through 'Borgo dei Borghi' (Village of Villages), a beloved television contest that has become a cultural phenomenon. Organised by RAI, Italy's national public broadcasting company, the annual competition is broadcast in weekly episodes that turn the spotlight on each of the 20 selected villages. The programme has become a form of travel inspiration as it recounts legends, curiosities and rituals that make each village one-of-a-kind. Here are this year's winners - chosen by viewers and an expert jury of historians and tourism professionals - and why you should add them to your next Italy trip itinerary. Lying on the northern slopes of the Iblei Mountains, winner Militello in Val di Catania is an exemplar of Sicilian baroque artistry and urban planning. The village of just under 7,000 inhabitants is included in UNESCO's designation of late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto. Following the devastating earthquake of 1693 that destroyed much of southeastern Sicily, Militello was rebuilt according to the baroque aesthetic principles of the era, resulting in an urban landscape that feels like an open-air museum of 18th-century design. The village is home to more than 20 churches with elaborate stone facades crowded with cherubs, saints, and intricate floral motifs. Militello is also home to numerous aristocratic villas and palaces that once housed the noble families who shaped the village's development. The village's cultural life is also abundant, with saints' day festivals involving processions, traditional music performances, and communal meals. Militello's victory marks Sicily's fifth triumph in the Borgo dei Borghi competition, following previous wins by Gangi, Montalbano Elicona, Sambuca di Sicilia, and Petralia Soprana. Heading up to the northern province of Turin, runner-up Agliè is characterised by both aristocratic grandeur and quotidian village life. The centrepiece is the Castello di Agliè, a palatial complex that forms part of UNESCO's Savoy Residences designation. The magnificent structure of imposing facades, elaborate gardens, and richly decorated interiors served as one of the primary residences of the House of Savoy, the royal family that ruled the Kingdom of Sardinia and later the unified Kingdom of Italy. The castle forms the heart of the village, surrounded by historic piazzas that are still the setting for weekly markets, seasonal festivals, and daily social interactions. The village gained additional fame as the primary filming location for 'Elisa di Rivombrosa', a popular Italian historical drama series. Third spot went to Vignanello, which exemplifies the sophisticated architectural and agricultural traditions of northern Lazio. The village's claim to fame rests primarily on the Castello Ruspoli, a Renaissance masterpiece whose gardens represent some of the finest examples of Italian landscape design from the 16th and 17th centuries. Vignanello is also renowned for its time-honoured winemaking traditions. The volcanic soils of the region, enriched by centuries of natural mineral deposits, provide ideal conditions for viticulture. The annual grape harvest festival is a grand celebration for the village, featuring wine tastings and food pairings as well as historical reenactments. High in the mountains of Calabria, Aieta lies in the untamed wilderness of the Pollino National Park. At over 500 metres of elevation, the medieval village commands lofty views over the Tyrrhenian Sea - its name is appropriately derived from the Greek word for eagle. Aieta's medieval character remains remarkably intact, with narrow stone streets winding between houses built from local stone. The village's 16th-century Renaissance palace stands as a testament to the wealth and cultural sophistication that even small mountain communities could achieve during Italy's golden age of art and architecture. The location within Pollino National Park makes Aieta an ideal base for exploring its ancient forests, deep gorges carved by rushing streams, and mountain peaks that provide habitat for rare wildlife, including wolves, eagles, and endemic plants. While the Amalfi Coast attracts millions of visitors annually to its famous destinations like Positano and Amalfi, Maiori offers a more tranquil alternative. The village has an expansive beach, unusual along a coastline typically characterised by small coves and dramatic cliffs. Behind the sweep of sand rise the village's colourful buildings and lemon groves that climb the steep hillsides threaded through with hiking routes. Visit the Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia, a remarkable religious complex carved directly into the coastal rock face. Inside are frescoed chapels and meditation spaces hewn directly from the cliff. Maiori's lemon groves represent not just agricultural activity but a cultural tradition that has shaped the landscape and economy of the Amalfi Coast for centuries. These terraced gardens, supported by stone walls built without mortar, are an extraordinary example of sustainable agriculture that maximises productivity while preserving the natural beauty of the steep coastal terrain.
Local Italy
3 days ago
- Local Italy
La Bella Vita: Italy's 'most beautiful' villages and essential Italian summer vocab
La Bella Vita is our regular look at the real culture of Italy – from language to cuisine, manners to art. This newsletter is published weekly and you can receive it directly to your inbox, by going to newsletter preferences in 'My Account' or following the instructions in the newsletter box below. If you're seeking inspiration for your next Italian holiday and are prepared to veer off the beaten track, look no further than the latest results from TV competition Borgo dei Borghi ('village of villages'). This much-loved series profiles 20 lesser-known historic Italian towns and villages in weekly episodes, inviting viewers to vote for their favourite at the end. You may be familiar with the Amalfi Coast, but have you ever visited Maiori, one of the coastline's rare spots with a wide sandy beach and a medieval abbey carved into a rock face? And this year's winner, Militello in Val di Catania, in eastern Sicily, is one of the eight UNESCO-listed late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, with its more than 20 historic churches and numerous aristocratic villas making it well worth a visit. With its glittering sands and turquoise seas, there are few summer holiday destinations with broader appeal than Italy: and if you've got plans to spend your summer here, it's worth brushing up on some key vocabulary first. If you're renting equipment from one of the many private clubs on Italy's spiagge (beaches), you'll want to make sure you can tell your ombrellone (beach umbrella) from your lettino (sunbed). Once you've secured your spot in the sun, you'll be able to abbronzarsi (get a tan); just make sure to buy or borrow some crema solare (sun screen) so you don't end up with a scottatura (sunburn). And if your neighbour starts blasting the latest tormentone dell'estate, or summer hit (literally 'big torment') while you're trying to nap? You might not be able to do anything about it, but at least you'll know how to complain to your Italian friends. Depending on where you are in Italy, you might hear its popular, croissant-shaped breakfast pastry referred to by various names. In most southern and central parts of the country, it's a cornetto, though in some fancier establishments, it's sometimes advertised as a croissant. In the north, it's most likely to be known as a brioche. But can something be called a brioche if it's shaped like a cornetto? And is there any actual difference between the two? Our editor Clare investigates. Is there an aspect of the Italian way of life you'd like to see us write more about? Please email us at news@
Local Italy
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Local Italy
The 10 Italian villages voted ‘most beautiful' in 2025
Italy is rightly famed for its historic towns and villages, and nowhere are they better showcased than in the much-loved TV series Borgo dei Borghi ('village of villages'). Starting every autumn, Italian national broadcaster RAI airs weekly episodes profiling 20 different villages, each competing against each other to be named the year's best borgo. Viewers can then vote online for their top choice, with the results – decided with the input of an expert jury – announced in April. Here are the top 10 finalists for 2025. Militello in Val di Catania (Sicily) – Taking the top spot for 2025, this village of just under 7,000 people is perched on the northern slopes of the Iblei Mountains. Part of the UNESCO-listed late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, Militello's historic centre boasts more than 20 historic churches and numerous aristocratic villas. Visitors can admire the intricate Sicilian Baroque architecture and enjoy local festivals that celebrate centuries of tradition. This marks Sicily's fifth win in the history of the contest, following previous victories by Gangi, Montalbano Elicona, Sambuca di Sicilia and Petralia Soprana. Agliè (Piedmont) – In second place, this elegant village in the province of Turin is home to the impressive Castello di Agliè, part of the UNESCO-recognized Savoy Residences. Surrounded by parks and historic piazzas, Agliè blends noble grandeur with everyday Italian life. It also gained fame from the popular Italian TV series Elisa di Rivombrosa, filmed in and around the castle. Castello di Aglie`. Piemonte (Torino) — Ugo Ramella (@RamellaUgo) August 9, 2024 Vignanello (Lazio) – Vignanello is nestled in the volcanic hills of northern Lazio and is known for Castello Ruspoli with its sprawling Renaissance gardens, along with a deep winemaking tradition. The town celebrates the grape harvest each year with a festival featuring music, food and historical reenactments. Aieta (Calabria) – Set within the Pollino National Park, the medieval town of Aieta is known for its 16th-century Renaissance palace and stunning views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. The name "Aieta" comes from the Greek word for eagle, and the village is true to its name – soaring over olive groves and deep gorges at an elevation of over 500m. Aieta in Calabria is magical ❤️ #Italy #Travel — Cultural Italy (@culturalitaly) March 6, 2018 Maiori (Campania) – While the Amalfi Coast is no secret, Maiori is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours. That makes it an ideal spot for travellers seeking charm without the crowds. Known for its wide beach, lemon groves and the Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia carved into the rock face, Maiori is a serene coastal retreat with plenty to offer. Lazise (Veneto) – Located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Lazise has a unique claim: it was the first town in Italy to be granted some degree of autonomy as a villa libera, or free town, meaning it had no feudal lord, in the 10th century. Enclosed by medieval walls and towers, its lakeside charm, colourful buildings and Romanesque church make it a picture-perfect escape. Lazise 💙🇮🇹 Take me back. — AJ (@shadowdancer_8) April 6, 2025 Ischitella (Puglia) – A gateway to the Gargano National Park in the southeast of the country, Ischitella is a hilltop village offering views of the Adriatic and easy access to Puglia's wild forests and ancient trails. Ischitella's old town is divided into two distinct parts: the medieval Terra Vecchia quarter with its narrow alleyways and terraced houses, and the Rione Ponte district, featuring mainly 18th century architecture. Grado (Friuli-Venezia Giulia) – Known as the 'Island of the Sun', Grado sits between the Marano Lagoon and the Gulf of Trieste in northeastern Italy.. Originally a Roman port, its historic center has Venetian-style homes, narrow streets and a stunning basilica with 6th-century mosaics. Buggerru (Sardinia) – This seaside village in southwestern Sardinia is built into cliffs and framed by rugged coastline. Once a hub for mining activity, Buggerru now tells the story of labour struggles and resilience through its industrial archaeology sites and museum. The turquoise waters of nearby Cala Domestica add natural beauty to the historical narrative. #GalleriaHenry, presso #Buggerru, in #Sardegna; un'antica miniera in mezzo al verde, circondata dal mare e dalla magia che custodiscono solo i luoghi incontaminati. — Debora_db (@debora_db4) February 20, 2023 Montechiarugolo (Emilia-Romagna) – A new entry for 2025, this town sits on the border of the provinces of Parma and Reggio Emilia, in the rolling foothills of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. This comune, made up of five hamlets, is known locally as gastronomic hotspot. It sits right in the heart of the "food valley" area known for producing the prized Fragno black truffle, Salame di Felino cured sausages, and of course, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Montechiarugolo is most famous though for its medieval castle, dating from the early fourteenth century, where visitors can take in sweeping views over the river Enza and surrounding forests. It's privately owned, but open to visitors and also used as a venue for weddings and other events.
Euronews
08-02-2025
- Euronews
'Pass on Positano': A local shares Italian destination dupes away from the Amalfi Coast crowds
Guests have called Hotel Poseidon in Positano breathtaking and luxurious, but Liliana Mascolo has only ever called it home. A third-generation employee of her family's hotel, Liliana's earliest memories recall full-season bookings and a bustling seaview terrace. 'Positano has always been popular,' Liliana says. 'But what's changed are the types of guests. Instead of staying for weeks or even months to relax, people visit for a few days, rushing to tick everything off of their Amalfi Coast must-see list.' Though she's always known why this part of the Amalfi Coast is so coveted, Liliana has watched Positano evolve from a popular, long-stay destination for Italians on a wealthy yet relaxed holiday to a more accessible destination where day-trippers and weekenders arrive with rigid itineraries. 'When I was studying in London, I had a poster of Positano on my wall but none of my friends were impressed because they didn't know about the Amalfi Coast. I remember the exact day Positano started getting popular on social media: all of my friends were stunned that it was my hometown.' Liliana is always ready to welcome guests to Hotel Poseidon, her once literal home, but she knows firsthand how overtourism on the Amalfi Coast creates an overwhelming experience for some travellers. Here are Liliana's four suggestions for taking an unforgettable Italian vacation away from the crowds, queues, and cliché attractions. Tropea: An Instagrammable beach with the beauty of Positano but none of the tourists 'The first place that comes to my mind as an alternative to Positano's beaches are Tropea's beaches.' Positano's popularity on social media has its unique landscape to thank. The rocky hillside lends the village the nickname 'the Pyramid of Positano'. This section of coastline features dramatic views of the village from sea level and dreamy Tyrrhenian Sea views from countless hotel terraces – including Hotel Poseidon's. Tropea, over 400 km south, is also a hilltop village perched above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Yet Liliana says while its jaw-dropping scenery is envy-inducing enough for Instagram it has no influencers in sight. 'I know that families from other Italian cities visit Tropea again and again but don't know of many foreign travellers going there. There's not many people around, and the landscapes are gorgeous, so it's such a peaceful environment.' Despite winning 2021's Borgo dei Borghi competition and one of the so-called pearls of the Tyrrhenian, Liliana still considers Tropea a hidden gem where you can watch the sunset without queuing up behind a crowd. Mount Abetone is an alluring alternative to the Italian Alps for 'JOMO' 'When I close my eyes and think of Mt. Abetone, I see myself laying on a sofa beside the fireplace, playing board games with my friends.' Standing among the Pistoia Mountains, Mt. Abetone is one of the most popular ski resorts in Italy, but you won't catch Liliana on the slopes. 'It's been years since I've skied; I just go there to relax. It's just me, the fireplace and some wine on many days. Going to the ski resort is an ambitious activity.' Liliana's family has a holiday home close to Mt. Abetone. When Hotel Poseidon closes for the season, you'll find Liliana escaping the FOMO (fear of missing out) found in Positano for the JOMO (joy of missing out) in the Apennines mountain range. 'Nothing ever happens up there, but that's my personal preference. It's not that I choose to do absolutely nothing – I could follow my sister to the slopes – but that I choose to unwind without feeling the need to hike or ski or do any of the activities most travellers come for.' JOMO is one of 2025's top travel trends. If you embrace JOMO like Liliana does, you'll definitely find relaxation and reconnection with loved ones on Mt. Abetone's 50 km of pistes – and a laid-back alternative to winter recreation. Instead of Atrani for set-jetting, visit Castellabate Until recently, the village of Atrani was considered one of the few overlooked spots on the Amalfi Coast: a quieter refuge where the savvy traveller could find a more authentic experience off the main tourist trail. Now, its popularity is rapidly rising as cinephiles flock to filming locations like Atrani's beach - as seen in Netflix's 'Ripley', and the cliff-clinging shrine, Santuario Santa Maria del Bando, which featured in 'Equalizer 3'. The ' set-jetting ' trend – planning a holiday based on destinations featured in TV series or films – is nothing new, which is why Liliana suggests embracing the trend without becoming a background extra in another visitor's TikTok video. 'I watched 'Benvenuti al Sud' several times before actually visiting Castellabate. It's even more beautiful in real life and the locals are just as friendly to strangers.' The Italian comedy, a remake of the French film 'Welcome to the Sticks', finds a postmaster transferred to the village of Castellabate where he discovers that the seemingly dangerous south defies its prejudiced stereotypes. 'Sit at a bar in Castellabate and the few tourists you'll see always look lost. Not because they don't know where to go, but because there's nowhere to go.' This small village, approximately 120 km south of Naples, has few attractions beyond a castle, an observation deck, and a small museum of sacred art housed in a church. 'There is nothing to do in Castellabate, life just passes you by and that's why it's so nice,' Liliana says. 'It reminds me of what Positano once was: there's no list to check off, you just wander around and get lost in the moment.' Look to villages like Lake Como's Varenna in the off-season Italy's tourism generates over €50 billion from 57 million annual visitors. Liliana agrees that some destinations, like the Amalfi Coast, may feel too tempting to skip, but that doesn't mean you have to follow the crowd. You could visit at a different time of year for a quieter and perhaps even more celestial experience. 'I really wanted to see Lake Como's landscape, not attractions, so I visited in December, the off-season. Varenna is the one place I'd stay if I go back.' Varenna, a short ferry ride from the bustling Bellagio, has less than 1,000 residents, the 12th-century Castello di Vezio and a romantic, lakeside pathway called the Walk of Lovers. On crisp and clear winter nights when the moon is in its crescent phase you can even enjoy some stargazing - as astrotourism is also right on trend for this year. 'Lake Como is incredible, but you can also get around northern Italy easily by train and visit Milan or Lake Garda.' The writer was a guest of Hotel Poseidon in 2021.
