If you’re looking for a change of pace and a peaceful, picturesque environment, Italy is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The stunning northern region of Trentino, known for its breathtaking mountain ranges where the Dolomites meet the Alps, is seeking to boost its population with a generous new initiative.
Revitalizing a Struggling Region
Trentino has faced population decline in recent years, with many towns experiencing rapid depopulation.
In response, the Italian government has launched a unique plan under the 2024 national budget law, offering up to €100,000 for people to move to the area.
This bold effort aims to repopulate and renovate over 30 towns, many of which are at risk of disappearing entirely.
Some of these villages are home to more abandoned homes than people.
The Offer and the Catch
As part of this initiative, Trentino has set aside over €10 million to support the purchase and renovation of these homes.
The program offers an €80,000 grant for property renovations and an additional €20,000 for purchasing abandoned or rundown properties.
However, there’s a condition: anyone who takes advantage of the grant must agree to live in the region for at least ten years or rent out the property for the same period.
Failing to meet these requirements could result in having to return the funding.
A Long-Standing Effort to Reinvigorate Italy’s Small Towns
This initiative isn’t the first of its kind. Since 2017, Italy has been experimenting with the “one euro” house scheme to combat depopulation in rural areas.
These properties, often in scenic locations like Sicily and Calabria, can be bought for just one euro, with the buyer committing to renovate them within a set time frame.
This has already led to more than 100 homes finding new owners across the country.
Trentino’s program offers even more support, with up to 100 residents expected to benefit from this new scheme.
The focus will be on areas like Val di Non, Val di Sole, and Castello Tesino, all of which are on the verge of disappearing if their populations don’t grow.
Why Trentino Needs New Residents
The villages targeted for this project are known for their unique cultural and landscape identity, but have struggled with population decline.
Many are located in remote mountain or valley areas, where daily life can be challenging due to their distance from larger cities and services.
Trentino officials are hopeful that this initiative will breathe new life into these areas.
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to both Italian residents and those living abroad.
However, there are restrictions: individuals under 45 who are already living in northern Italy are not eligible.
Also, each participant can only purchase up to three properties under the scheme.
With 33 towns expected to be included in the program, Trentino hopes to finalize the details in the coming weeks.
The initiative offers a rare chance for those looking for a quiet, rural life in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions while contributing to the revival of a community in need.