During the 130th anniversary of its foundation, the Italian Touring Club (TCI) has reiterated a fundamental goal for the future of tourism in Italy: the rediscovery and enhancement of the small towns of our country. In particular, the TCI placed the emphasis on those 7,200 municipalities with less than 15,000 inhabitantsof which good the 24% it has a strong tourist attraction, despite its small size.
This commitment comes at a significant moment, during the celebration ceremony that saw the presence of The President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella and marks a new phase for the organization, with the change of presidency and the announcement of new important awards.
That’s it which are the 5 new Orange Flag countries and what are the prospects for the future of tourism in small Italian towns.
The Nine Orange Flags: 5 countries to discover
After the TCI awarded the five new Orange Flagsthus bringing the total number of countries awarded the prestigious recognition to 290the Orange Flags are again confirmed as a symbol of quality for countries that can offer a unique combination of art, nature, gastronomic tradition, sustainability e Welcome.
Barrea (L’Aquila): in the National Park of Abruzzo
Barrea is a lovely village located in the heart of Abruzzo National Parkone of the most fascinating natural areas in Italy. With its breathtaking views and the proximity of lakes and mountains, it is the ideal place for those looking for an experience immersed in nature. The history of Barrea is intertwined with local traditions, which include typical gastronomy and craftsmanship, making it a perfect destination for tourists looking for tranquility and natural beauty.
Caposele (Avellino): a village rich in traditions and art
Caposele, located in the province of Avellinoit is a country rich in history and traditions, famous for its art and culture. The city is known for its churches, its historical monuments and for the landscapes that surround the river Sele, which enriches the country of charm. Caposele is also the starting point for exploration Picentini Mountains and the natural beauty of the region, which offers a unique blend of history, art and nature.
These countries are not alone fascinating places to visitbut they have also become real drivers of economic development for the areas in which they are located. 83% of common with the brand Orange flag has indeed registered an increase in housing supply, while 81% have seen the opening of new commercial establishments and 79% have inaugurated at least one new restaurant establishment. Thanks to this recognition, the increase in tourism has been significant: on average, the countries with the Orange Flag have registered an increase of 45% of tourist arrivals and of 38% of attendance.
San Marco d’Alunzio (Messina): a Sicilian medieval town
In heart of Sicily San Marco d’Alunzio is a charming medieval village that preserves intact the traces of its past. Immersed in the hills of Messina, the village offers a spectacular panorama of the Alcantara Valley and on its historical ruins, such as the castle and the ancient churches.
Trarego Viggiona (Verbano-Cusio-Ossola): in the green of the Alpine valleys
Trarego Viggiona, is located in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossolais a small alpine village that enchants with its mountain landscapes and its peaceful atmosphere. Located among the green forests of alpine valleysit offers numerous opportunities for excursions, walks and outdoor sports. The beauty of Lake Maggiorea few kilometers away, and the typical architecture of the country make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and relaxation.
Urbania (Pesaro and Urbinu): artistic and cultural traditions
Urbania, a hidden gem in the marchesis known for its rich cultural and artistic tradition. Known for Feast of the Madonna of the Village and his municipal theaterUrbania is an ideal destination for art and history lovers. Its cobbled streets and architectural heritage, ranging from the Renaissance to the Baroque, offer visitors an authentic immersion in the culture of marches.
New focus on tourism in Italian countries
The Italian Touring Club has always supported the value of Italian countries as places rich in history, culture, nature and authentic traditions. Today, in the era of mass tourism, there is a growing attention towards those smaller, but equally fascinating destinations that allow travelers to immerse themselves in more intimate and genuine experiences. It puts countries back at the center of travel It is therefore a choice that looks to the future of sustainable tourism, highlighting the cultural and environmental heritage of these places far from the traditional tourist circuits.
The mission of the TCI is, in fact, to ensure that these places do not exist alone better known but that tourist flows are also distributed more equitably, with a positive impact on the local economy. It is not a case that, precisely on this occasion, the new Orange Flag awardstangible sign of the Touring Club’s attention to the most fascinating and deserving countries.
On this important occasion, the Italian Touring Club also saw a change at the top. Franco Iseppihistoric president of the association, decided to end his 14-year term. At the threshold of 85 years oldIseppi chose this day, entitled “Tradition becomes future”, to take a step back. A symbolic moment that marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new season for the TCI.
Gian Domenico AuricchioCEO of the company Gennaro Auricchio Spawill take his place, appointed by the board of directors. Auricchio, already active in the TCI as an advisor, stressed the importance of tourism that is based not only on conservation but also on the active valorization of the territorial heritage, in view of the future and generations to come As he explained, “There is an unexplored potential in the villages”and the objective is to create a differentiated tourist offer that expresses the cultural, gastronomic and landscape specificities of our country.