The rural space renaissance in relation to urban space: Some suggestions from Italy

This paper deals withthe growing feeling of greater attention towards rural spaces with a focus on Italy. We discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed perspectives on inland areas, highlighting their environmental and safety advantages over cities. Examples of regenerative experiences in small Italian towns are shownthrough two caseexamples, such as the "1€ Houses" (or “Houses for 1 €”, “H1€”) project and a significativevillage regeneration initiative carried out by two private actorsin the centre of Italy. The evolution of rural areas from agricultural spaces to tourist destinations is also explored, highlighting the potential for economic and social development. At the same time, idealized narratives of rural life are criticized,and the need for a more nuanced understanding of rural areas beyond aesthetics and tourism is highlighted. Overall, the articlemakes a call for the empowerment of rural communities, underlining the importance of building new social ties, economies and local communities that respect territorial diversity.In conclusion, some suggestions about policies to be implemented and the role of institutions towards local revitalization projects are provided.