History Travel

Exploring the Ghost Towns of the Italian Alps

Here are the ghost towns that are in the Italian Alps. Although there are many creepy tales that go along with these sites, they are actually beautiful and a different activity to add to your next visit.

Paese Fantasma di Palcoda

This town is located in Italy, specifically in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. This particular town is loved amongst tourists and locals to walk through without much effort. The road leading to this area is rich with history and is a good beginning trail for those wanting to hike in Italy. During the walk, there are panels that explain the history of the small hamlets in the area, and according to the locals in this area you must read them! There is a church and a bell tower that apparently have been reconstructed in the last few years.

Barmaz

Nestled in the Aosta Valley, this abandoned town presents a slightly haunting yet captivating scene. A particularly hidden gem, the town was once a vibrant community that fell into desolation over the years. Remnants of old stone houses and structures that tell tales of a past era, this town attracts adventurers and history buffs because of its inhabitants gradually leaving for more prosperous areas of Italy and more. Barmaz is surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps, and is a place where visitors can explore the silent time-worn ruins with natural landscape. 

Portesone

Another popular ghost town in the Italian Alps is Portesone. Situated in the lush, rolling hills of the Piedmont region, this once-thriving villages lies with crumbling facades of its buildings and silence. This town in particular was interesting to learn. Italian natives said that the reasons for its abandonment were a blend of economics and a modernization shift that lead its residents to seek opportunities elsewhere. Quite hilly, this town truly puts you in the shoes of the once citizens of this town. 

Associazione "Amici di Chemp"- Villaggio d'Arte

The Friends of Champ Association is an initiative centered around the village of Chemp. It is a village of care and the mission behind this town is to breathe new life into an abandoned village. This town differs from the other ghost towns because of its now updated features. There are workshops to participate in as well as cultural events that provide a platform for both local and international artists to showcase their work. These activities have not only promoted cultural exchange but also contributed to the revitalization of this village. 

Borgo di Tamar

Tamar consists of narrow cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses, and a control square that seems to tell stories of community gatherings from centuries ago. This ghost town, similar to the last town, has since been revitalized by the efforts of a local organization. The goal behind the new life is to not only become a destination for history enthusiasts but to also live as a museum that upholds the traditional way of life in Italy years ago. Another goal, according to Italian locals, is to  preserve the town’s beauty and tapestry for future generations to be able to experience the authentic spirit of Tamar. 

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