Belcastro, in Italy there is a splendid “fairytale village”

In the heart of Calabria, in the province of Catanzaro, stands Belcastro, a charming medieval village which in recent years has taken on the enchanting nickname of “Village of Fairytales“. This transformation is the result of an ambitious urban redevelopment project that has seen the entire town become an open-air art gallery, thanks to the creativity of local artist Matteo Lupia.

A fairytale world in Belcastro

Strolling through the narrow streets of Belcastro, visitors can immerse themselves in a fairy-tale world: vivid murals adorn the facades of the houses, depicting iconic characters such as Alice in Wonderland, the White Rabbit and Pinocchio.

Photo: meravigliedicalabria.it

These works not only embellish the village, but tell timeless stories, creating a magical atmosphere that fascinates both adults and children.

The historical heritage of Belcastro: the Norman castle

In addition to its artistic appearance, Belcastro boasts a significant historical heritage. The majestic Norman castle dominates the landscape, offering a panoramic view of the Gulf of Squillace. This castle is also known for being the birthplace of St. Thomas Aquinas, adding a further reason of interest for those visiting the village.

Photo: itbeach.it

Art as a valorization of the territory

The local community has enthusiastically embraced this artistic metamorphosis. Events such as “Christmas in the Village of Fairy Tales” have seen the town light up with Christmas decorations, enhancing the fairytale atmosphere and attracting visitors from all over the region. These initiatives not only celebrate local traditions, but also promote the cultural, contributing to the economic and social rebirth of the area.

Photo meravigliedicalabria.it

Belcastro represents a virtuous example of how art can act as a driving force for the enhancement and revitalization of historic Italian villages. Thanks to the synergy between tradition and innovation, this “Borgo delle Favole” continues to enchant and inspire all those who are fortunate enough to walk its streets.