Seven hidden Italian villages join I Borghi più belli d'Italia in 2026
Seven new villages have joined I Borghi più belli d'Italia in 2026, bringing the total to 382. This national initiative highlights Italy's lesser-known historic gems, each chosen for their unique charm and cultural heritage. The latest additions range from lakeside retreats to rugged mountain hamlets, all meeting strict quality standards.
The selection process follows a detailed evaluation based on 72 criteria under the Carta di Qualità. A national board, working to ISO 9001 standards, assesses each candidate. Villages must have no more than 2,000 residents in their historic centre and 15,000 across the whole municipality. They must also feature a high concentration of historic buildings and a visually unified townscape.
Among the new entries, **Limone sul Garda** sits on the western shore of Lake Garda, known for its 18th-century lemon gardens clinging to cliffs. A recent addition, the *Ciclopedonale del Garda*, now offers a scenic cycling and walking route along the lake. In Emilia-Romagna, **Castelvetro di Modena** centres on *Piazza Roma*, with its distinctive chessboard-patterned paving. Two towers dominate the square: the *Torre dell'Orologio* and the *Torre delle Prigioni*. The village is also famed for its *Lambrusco Grasparossa* vineyards and traditional *Aceto Balsamico* production. **Pietrapertosa**, perched in Basilicata's Lucanian Dolomites, offers steep stairways, ancient churches, and sweeping panoramic views. Nearby, **Rivello** spreads across several hills, overlooking the *Valle del Noce*. Visitors can explore the *Convento di Sant'Antonio da Padova* and the *Chiesa di Santa Maria del Poggio*. Further north, **Pieve di Teco** in Liguria stands out for its long arcades, once vital for trade. Today, it draws visitors to the *Teatro Salvini* and the *Museo delle Maschere di Ubaga*, celebrating local traditions. In Piedmont, **Borgo del Piazzo** forms Biella's medieval upper town, linked to the lower town by the *Funicolare di Biella*. Highlights include *Palazzo La Marmora* and the *Chiesa di San Giacomo*. Campania's **Cusano Mutri** clings to the slopes of the *Massiccio del Matese*, resembling a medieval mountain village. Nature lovers visit the *Forre di Lavello* and the *Ponte del Mulino*, blending history with rugged landscapes. For decades, Germans have favoured Italian destinations like Lake Garda, Jesolo, and Rimini. Now, initiatives like *I Borghi più belli d'Italia* are broadening their choices, showcasing the country's diverse and often overlooked heritage.
The seven new villages add to Italy's growing list of recognised historic sites. Each offers distinct attractions, from citrus gardens and vineyards to mountain trails and medieval squares. Their inclusion reflects a wider effort to preserve and promote Italy's rich but lesser-known cultural landscapes.
