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Italian Villages Gaining Recognition and Admiration Due to Esteemed Awards:

Unveil Five Italian Villages Winning Distinctive Awards, Famed for Cultural, Historical Importance. Delve into Their Unique Traits, Time-honored Customs, Breathtaking Scenery, Serving as Enriching Choices to Overcrowded Tourist Spots.

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Unveil five Italian villages lauded for their cultural and historical importance. Delve into their...
Unveil five Italian villages lauded for their cultural and historical importance. Delve into their distinctive characteristics, age-old customs, and picturesque surroundings, serving as alluring options to overcrowded tourist hotspots.

Italian Villages Gaining Recognition and Admiration Due to Esteemed Awards:

Freshening Up the Village of Villages:

Each year, the Borgo dei Borghi television show showcases 20 Italian villages, displaying their best charms to inspire off-the-beat-path travel. Broadcasted on RAI, the national public broadcasting company, this program has become a tradition since its debut in 2014. Here are the five 2025 winners, perfect for gaining some holiday inspiration.

Militello, Val di Catania, Sicily:

This lovely Sicilian village, hidden in the Iblei Mountains, snagged the top spot this year. Militello is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List of Late Baroque Cities of the Val di Noto. With more than 20 churches, several aristocratic baroque palaces and villages, and one of Sicily's biggest abbeys, Militello showcases an impressive architectural heritage[1]. The village's reconstruction post the 1693 earthquake led to its rebuilding in the popular baroque style[2].

The main events in Militello revolve around the festivals of Madonna della Stella and Saint Salvatore, while the Cassatelle della zia monaca — baskets filled with almonds, jams, liqueur, cinnamon, and cloves — are the culinary highlight[1].

Agliè, Piedmont:

Located just outside Turin, Agliè can be found on UNESCO's World Heritage Site list. The castle, part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history that spans seven centuries[1]. Wander through the medieval architecture or immerse yourself in outdoor activities in the surrounding region. Cinema enthusiasts might recognize Agliè from Elisa di Rivombrosa, a popular Italian historical drama series filmed in the town[2].

Vignanello, Lazio:

Only 60 kilometers from Rome, Vignanello manages to feel a world away. Nestled at the feet of the Cimini Mountains, it boasts the beautiful Castello Ruspoli, a Renaissance castle and its gardens - renowned for their superb Italian landscape design from the 16th century[3]. The village's volcanic soils produce excellent wine, and the local varieties, such as Greek Vignanello, Vignanello Superiore, and Domenico, are a must-try when visiting[3]. Foodies will also appreciate local pasta specialties such as Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Cacio e Pepe.

Aieta, Calabria:

Featured on the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy list, Aieta in the south of Italy may already be familiar[4]. Perched within the Pollino National Park, the village offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, but it's more than just scenery[4]. With roots dating back to the Byzantine era when it was known as Asty Aetou (meaning 'City of the Eagle'), Aieta is rich in history[4]. The 16th-century Renaissance palace is a relic from a time when Italy was at the height of its power, and its culture reached the most secluded villages[4]. Throughout the Pollino National Park, you'll find an abundance of outdoor activities and the local 'Nduja sausage is a must-taste.

Maiori, Campania:

Although Maiori is on the famous Amalfi Coast along with Sorrento and Positano, it sees fewer tourists, making it a charming alternative[3]. Known for its longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline, Maiori offers a relaxing getaway[3]. The historic town center features numerous 13th-century buildings, and the Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia, a complex carved directly into the coastal rock with frescoed chapels[3]. Enjoy colorful houses, lemon groves, Aperol Spritz, and delicious seafood platters while taking in this idyllic village's charm.

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  1. A tour through the Iblei Mountains will lead you to the top-ranked village of Militello in Val di Catania, Sicily, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing impressive Baroque architecture.
  2. For a glimpse into the history spanning seven centuries, took a journey to Agliè in Piedmont, a village situated near Turin and part of UNESCO's World Heritage Site list.
  3. Escape the crowds on the Amalfi Coast and discover Maiori, a charming alternative featuring the longest unbroken beach, picturesque 13th-century buildings, and fresh seafood platters.
  4. Experience the local lifestyle in Vignanello, just 60 kilometers from Rome, where you can enjoy excellent wines and traditional pasta dishes like Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Cacio e Pepe.
  5. In Calabria, Aieta, situated within the Pollino National Park, offers breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, rich history dating back to the Byzantine era, and the opportunity to taste the local 'Nduja sausage.
  6. Embark on an eco-friendly holiday in the village of Aieta, perched in the heart of the Pollino National Park, and explore a wide array of outdoor activities.
  7. Militello, a legendary destination on the UNESCO World Heritage List, invites you to immerse yourself in various activities andlocal cuisine, such as the famed Cassatelle della zia monaca during their annual festivals.

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