Italian Life in a Small Town

When thinking about owning a property in Italy it's nearly impossible not to picture the typical farm house in the country, most likely in the Tuscan style, surrounded only by lovely hills and an ocean of green grass. This image reflects what the majority of non-Italians look for when they consider buying a home in Italy, however, there are also a fast-growing number of buyers who prefer to own a home within a village. Usually those who choose to live within a town rather than out in the country do so because they prefer to live with the hustle and bustle of other people rather than in peaceful isolation.

House in the Small Town of Bolsena

In fact, buyers very fond of the Italian culture usually prefer to live in villages or small towns as they offer a much greater chance to stay in contact with locals, thus helping one to learn the language more quickly and get a better idea of the lifestyle of the area. This immersion also allows for the opportunity to meet some friendly neighbors, which helps one to feel more settled and included when moving far from home.

There are also other, more down-to-earth reasons why people choose a property in a village over one in the country. First of all a village home is generally cheaper than a farmhouse placed in the surrounding country side, also shops and amenities are obviously nearer, most of the time within walking distance, as well as other services and transportation. If you consider buying within a medieval town you are likely to find village houses or apartments that have pretty much the same features that make farmhouses so appealing from the thick stone walls - which retain warmth in winter and keep cool in summer - terracotta tiled floors, exposed wooden beams, fireplaces and even a garden if you are lucky (or simply have a high budget!)

As there is no good without evil, there are also no pros without cons, and in fact there are some when it comes to buying a home in a small Italian town. Even though in smaller municipalities it is generally easier to get planning permission to modify your home, it is even easier get it for properties outside the city limits rather than for homes set within villages, as towns must abide to stricter planning rules especially ones with many historical buildings. Often, parking or car access close to your home can also be tricky, particularly in the beautiful small villages characterised by narrow streets built many centuries ago, when the main transport means were donkeys and horses rather than automobiles. You also need to consider that in historic times, especially in the high tourist season, you may very well be awaken late at night by the sound of music and town fairs. On the other hand, if you enjoy this kind of life and vitality you can simply join in on the revelry and festivals that include food, drink and music.

Talamone, a Small Town in Southern Tuscany

With the whole of Italy dotted with thousands of wonderful towns and villages, there are plenty of varieties to choose from. You can find villages on high mountains, on hill tops, by the shores of beautiful lakes, on cliffs right above the sea, by the coast and so on and so forth. If it is a restoration project that you're looking for then you'll be well served as there are a huge amount of homes awaiting renovations, even whole abandoned villages that need to be completely reconstructed, where purchase prices are ridiculously low, although you must be aware that all the costs lay in the restoration. A good example of it is the restoration project of the abandoned Sicilian town of Salemi, where homes are for sale for just 1 Euro, although must be restored in accordance to strict rules. These regulations include keeping the home's original features and hiring only local renovation companies. Or take the example of the town of Calitri in the province of Avellino, Campania, a town that was abandoned after the earthquake of 1980 and that has now nearly come completely back to life.

If, instead, all you desire is a beautifully restored home without all the hassle of renovation, you can also be happily satisfied. Apart from the myriads of completely restored town houses and apartments you can also get your hands on any number of medieval watchtowers, castles, mills and even deconsecrated churches. When renovated these buildings are either split up into smaller apartments or sold whole to those whose budget allows. By buying a home in one of these unique structures you not only get to enjoy the architecture of these places but also get to help preserve a piece of history and culture.

From north to south you can find stunning small towns in Italy where you can put down roots. Each has its own history, culture, food and traditions. Just pick the one you prefer and get started on finding out all the wonderful reasons why buying a home in a small Italian town is a great option.

See also

• City or country ?
• Summer in small towns in Italy

By Christiano