Exploring Italy’s Enchanting Ghost Towns
Italy, renowned for its captivating cities, rich culture, artistic heritage, and exquisite cuisine, attracts millions of tourists annually. Last year, approximately 50 million visitors journeyed to Italy, contributing billions to the national economy.
A significant portion of these travellers originated from European nations including Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. However, a less celebrated aspect of Italy is its collection of roughly 5,000 ghost towns. Known by Italians as “sleeping beauties,” these deserted towns await discovery by inquisitive travellers seeking unique experiences.
Discovering Italy’s Abandoned Villages
Many of these ghost towns feature moss-covered temples, ruined medieval abbeys, and decaying Renaissance fortresses, offering a glimpse into Italy’s rich past.
Among the most well-known abandoned settlements are Craco in Basilicata, Sostila in Lombardy, and Villaggio Asproni in Sardinia. These locations present compelling destinations for off-the-beaten-path tourism in Italy.
Balestrino: A Medieval Ghost Town in Liguria
Another notable example is Balestrino in Liguria, a medieval town deserted since 1953. Balestrino stands as a prominent example of Italy’s intriguing ghost towns, drawing visitors with its historical ambiance and picturesque decay.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
The Mystery of Balestrino’s Origins
The precise history and origins of Balestrino remain largely unknown, adding to the mystique and allure of this famed Italian ghost town. This enigmatic past enhances Balestrino’s appeal for tourists interested in historical mysteries and unexplored sites.
Visiting Balestrino Today
Each year, thousands of tourists are drawn to Balestrino, fascinated by its enigmatic character and historical structures. The town’s blend of mystery and architectural remnants makes it a popular attraction for those exploring Italy’s hidden gems.
Balestrino’s history extends back to at least the 11th century. The best-preserved structure within the town is the Byzantine-era Castle of Del Carretto. This ancient fortress serves as a focal point for visitors and historians alike.
The initial castle was erected by the Bava family, nobles hailing from Piedmont, who initially served as feudal lords of the area. Tracing the lineage of Balestrino’s historical significance, the Bava family’s rule marked an early chapter in the town’s development.
In the 16th century, power shifted to the Del Carretto family, who subsequently constructed their notable castle, further shaping Balestrino’s architectural landscape and historical trajectory.
Exploring Balestrino’s Landmarks
The deserted area encompasses 1.5 hectares and includes other compelling buildings such as the Churches of St. George and St. Andrew, both dating back to the 12th century. These religious structures offer further insight into Balestrino’s medieval past and community life.
The Deautra bridge, now covered in natural overgrowth, represents another scenic feature of this ghost town. This picturesque element adds to Balestrino’s visual charm and appeal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Balestrino in Popular Culture
Balestrino’s unique atmosphere has also attracted the attention of Hollywood, serving as a filming location for “Inkheart,” a 2008 fantasy adventure film starring Dame Helen Mirren. Its selection as a movie set underscores Balestrino’s captivating setting and visual appeal.