Italy’s unique cultural heritage renowned for its contribution to art, architecture cuisine and traditions.
Italian Borghi is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of Italy’s unique cultural heritage. The associations purpose is to promote Italian agriculture, agritourism, village architectural restoration, festive celebrations, and to support research with the digitisation of its culture to be celebrated worldwide.
Italian villages
“Il Dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing.
What is a “BORGO”?
The literal translation of Borgo in English would be “Village”, (plural: “Borghi”) These fortified small towns dating back to the period from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. It usually rises around a castle and has surrounding agricultural land .
Protecting
enhancing
historical
assets
tangible
intangible
Four pillars of focus; Agriculture & Agritourism, Architecture & Restoration, Festivals & Celebrations Research & Digital Technology
Agriculture & Agritourism
Italy’s approach to agriculture emphasises a strong connection between biodiversity, Agritourism and a strong commitment to sustainable practices. This ideology is reflected in its national led legislation that promotes agritourism as an agricultural activity, encouraging farmers to diversify their income while preserving rural landscapes and cultural traditions. Agritourism in Italy is not just a tourism model; it is deeply integrated with the preservation of agricultural heritage and biodiversity.
Architecture &
Restoration
Italian Renaissance village buildings are example of cultural heritage, with their architecture reflecting humanism and a focus on harmony with nature. Restoration and preservation efforts are crucial to maintain their historical and artistic value, often involving careful study, cleaning and structural repairs. Italy actively promotes the preservation of these properties through various initiatives , including tax incentives for private donors and international collaborators.
Festivities & Celebrations
Italian Sagre are local festivals, often centred around food, that celebrate the bounty of the land and local traditions. They are a way for towns and villages to show case specialities, often linked to a special harvest, seasonal ingredient or a patron saint. The communal events bring people together in public squares, offering a chance to experience local culture.
Research & Digital Technology
Research into Italian cultural, agricultural, and architectural practices increasingly utilises technological design tools to promote the conservation and restoration of culturally significant sites, integrating these aspects with conservation management planning. This involves a shift from static preservation to dynamic conservation., adapting heritage buildings to meet modern needs while respecting their historical and cultural significance.
Events
For ten years, the Italian Borghi association, in collaboration with Italian technical specialists , have organised hands-on workshops dedicated to architectural restoration. Theoretical aspects of design are integrated with practical work on building sites, thus providing participants with the direct experience of “making architecture”. Important in terms of both intercultural exchange and local awareness, the educational sites offer an opportunity for rediscovery and the revival of often forgotten and abandoned places.
Workshops
Workshops Traditional architecture is the fruit of centuries of work and know-how, understanding, and expertise. Our duty is therefore to intervene with projects respectful of this heritage, without renouncing contemporary needs and comfort. Knowledge of those architectural elements and construction techniques that cannot be disregarded by anyone collaborating in this sector.
Projects
Our collaborative technical team relationships in Italy connects our strategies to outcomes
A collaborative technical team in Italy , aiming for innovative outcomes through connecting our strategiesThrough knowledge exchange, adherence local laws and technological innovation our focus is strengthened
Technical
Team Collaborators in key aspects of village life .
Informed Communication Strategies that lead to real outcomes . Through our own experiences and advisors we know what’s relevant to focus on.
Terraced Landscapes & Agricultural Practices
Awareness of traditional stone architecture inevitably involves not only buildings, but also the surrounding environment, including the thousands of kilometres of dry stone walls covering hills and mountainsides. The project on the terraced landscape began in 2015 in collaboration with local specialists within the Pennevaire Valley.
Historic Village Buildings
The Villa Fiume estate in Castelbianco is an important and impressive historical property of the Pennevaire Valley. Since 2015 the Foundation has collaborated with the professionals of Castelbianco in organising restoration workshops. The aim is the rediscovery and enhancement of a place full of history and beauty, making it accessible to the public.
Italian Artisanal Food Practices
Within the project of Villa Fiume, the complex of buildings owned by the Foundation aims to be an on-going educational site where contemporary housing needs are combined with the use of traditional techniques and materials. The project is a continuous work-in-progress and transformation.
What are you waiting for?
Ready to take the next step? Let’s bring your vision to life! Explore our cultural association and get in touch today for more information. Together, we’ll make it happen.
Collaborators
