logo
The key to reviving a ‘crumbling' ghost town? Make it Instagrammable

The key to reviving a ‘crumbling' ghost town? Make it Instagrammable

New York Post24-06-2025
After years spent on the decline, this small city in Italy has transformed into a bustling tourist town, where visitors flock from across the world to snap photos of the town's now-famous murals.
Stornara, a once-prosperous city in Puglia, was well-known for its production of agricultural goods like wheat and olives, but as the population shifted — younger people began to stop settling down where they were raised, instead moving away from the town in favor of more job opportunities in bigger cities.
Though some locals began to resign themselves to the empty streets and broken-down buildings, Lino Lombardi, an artist, decided to try to bring the city back to life.
4 Though the residents themselves love the murals, they attract plenty of tourists who are on the hunt for unique, captivating spots to take photos.
Luciano Magaldi Sardella / SWNS
Though other Italian towns are known for their collections of Renaissance paintings or their preserved Roman ruins, Lombardi offered up Stramurales, an annual street art festival. Lombardi, along with artists from across the world, painted murals on buildings across the town.
While 2018, the first year of the festival, was a relatively slow start — six murals were produced — there are now over 140 in Stornara, adding plenty of color and life to the town that locals and tourists alike have enjoyed.
According to SWNS, tourist-based revenue has increased 25% since 2020, allowing eight new businesses — three bed and breakfasts, two restaurants, and an art supplies shop included.
'Suddenly, there were loads of people turning up with cameras and guidebooks. I had to quickly learn to say 'welcome' in five different languages,' explained cafe owner Antonio Maglione in an interview with SWNS. 'The murals saved my business, but more than that, they saved our community.'
Lombardi says that the murals that decorate over a hundred town walls are inspired by a variety of themes, including the city's history, migration within Italy, and the importance of the citizens as the core of the town.
4 A crowd gathers around one of the murals in Stornara.
Luciano Magaldi Sardella / SWNS
'We had lost our pride, but the murals reminded us that our town and our stories are worth celebrating,' said Salvatore Nappi, a retired olive farmer, when speaking with SWNS.
Nappi is one of many citizens who get to vote on the content suggested for each mural, and because a variety of artists work on the pieces, they range from vibrant to muted to cartoonish to ultra-realistic, adding even more texture and life to the town.
One woman, Rita Gensano, returned to Stornara in 2017 to look after her parents after being away for years. At first, she said she was dreading moving back, but after Stramurales started up and tourists began to visit, she told SWNS it's 'the coolest town in Italy.'
4 An artist working on their mural.
Luciano Magaldi Sardella / SWNS
'At first people thought I was crazy, but I couldn't just watch the town fade away. I started looking at the walls as blank canvases which could be turned into something beautiful,' Lombardi said.
'Every mural reflects both the artist's vision and our community's heart. We never planned to be a case study, but if our experience can help other communities, that's even more meaningful,' he concluded.
Following the success of Stramurales, Lombardi also founded a charity that offers high schoolers opportunities to get involved in art.
For the July 2025 edition of the festival, Lombardi is inviting artists from each continent to contribute to Stramurales, prompting more diverse visitors and captivating new art to look at — a decision the town's citizens are certainly pleased with.
4 Many of the murals are in central or populated locations in the town, so people can enjoy the art to its fullest extent.
Luciano Magaldi Sardella / SWNS
'When I first returned, it felt like a sacrifice, it was like walking into a ghost town,' shared Gensano, who now acts as a tour guide and lives in her hometown full-time. 'I had left it full of life and laughter, but when I returned, it felt like it was dying.'
'But actually it has become something extraordinary which I have been fortunate to be a part of,' she concluded.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

The picturesque Spanish villages that tourists haven't found—yet
The picturesque Spanish villages that tourists haven't found—yet

National Geographic

timean hour ago

  • National Geographic

The picturesque Spanish villages that tourists haven't found—yet

Slightly up north of Madrid and Barcelona, nestling at the foothills of the Pyrenees, lies the region of Aragon, rich in history and natural beauty. Here, green hills hug the soaring mountains and dense forests open up to flowering meadows. Down in the valleys, ancient castles hide among the olive groves, endless vineyards disappear into the horizon and centuries-old villages bask in the Mediterranean sun all summer long. Aragon's historical claim to fame reaches all the way to America. Known as the Kingdom of Aragon in the 11th century, it became a precursor to the modern-day Spain, when King Ferdinand of Aragon married Queen Isabella of Castile in 1469. About two decades later, the royal couple financed Christopher Columbus's voyage to the New World. In recent years, beautiful nature and booming gastronomy placed Aragon on the map again, yet so far it has managed to evade mass tourism. Clinging to the banks of the Ebro River, Aragon's breezy capital Zaragoza remains uncrowded—even in summer. So do its medieval villages that are sprinkled throughout the countryside. Marvel at historical treasures Zaragoza boasts an amalgam of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance, as well as the Mudejar, a mix of Islamic and Christian styles, that is prominent in the Aragon region. Visit the Alfajería Palace— parts of which date to the 11th century—to see some of these features harmoniously blending together. Unusual for a relatively small city, Zaragoza has two cathedrals: La Seo, which hosts a tapestry collection, and Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, famous for frescos painted by Francisco de Goya. About an hour north of Zaragoza sits Loarre Castle, built in 1085. Today, it's better known for its appearance in the 2005 Kingdom of Heaven movie, in which Orlando Bloom rides his horse up the castle steps. Another hour north brings you to the Monastery of San Juan de la Peña, a unique sanctuary carved out of the mountain, now a museum. La Seo is home to a world-class collection of Flemish tapestries. Photograph By Dorothea Schmid/laif/Redux Explore medieval villages In the second half of the 20th century, Aragon struggled with the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War and World War II. 'Farmers couldn't feed their families, so they went to big cities looking for work at factories and many villages were nearly abandoned,' says Aragon-based Alba Cruells, whose company Spain Insights offers custom tours of the region. 'Today, the trend has reversed. People are returning to their ancestral homes, reviving the region, which sparked rural tourism.' One of the oldest Aragon villages, Alquézar retains much of its medieval looks. Traverse its labyrinthian cobblestone streets and Plaza Mayor, the main square, where centuries-old houses still maintain massive wooden doors once used to let horse carriages pass through. Note the still-intact animal hooves nailed on or above the doors—medieval residents believed that they warded off witches. (Why Menorca's capital is one of Spain's most underrated cities) Visit San Vicente in Roda de Isabena, the oldest cathedral in Aragon with a beautiful cloister. In Ainsa, take a stroll down the main street to see the Traditional Arts and Crafts Museum that displays medieval household items ranging from spinning wheels to iron tools. Keep an eye out for Apartamentos El Pozo: About 10 years ago, when the owners renovated the basement, they discovered a 15th century mikve—a purifying ritual Jewish bath, which temporarily turned the building into an archaeological site. Today you can see the bath through the glass cover on the first floor—the doors are open. The Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor dates back to the ninth century. Photograph By Tolobalaguer/Shutterstock Indulge in local specialties One of the region's most famous specialties is frutas de Aragon, sweets made with candied pears, peaches, apricots, cherries, and plums, dipped in rich dark chocolate. The local lore states that Aragon was the first place in Europe where chocolate arrived from the New World, brought by the traveling monks, who perfected the recipe over the years. Stock up to take some home at Pastelería Fantoba in Zaragoza or browse the city's Central Market where you can also pick up Jamón de Teruel, Aragon's prized ham made from pigs raised in the mountainous Teruel region before curing for 12 months. (15 of the best Spanish food experiences) On the countryside, stop at Quesos Bal de Broto in Sarvisé for local cheeses and a tour of its aging cellar. At Alquézar's family-owned bakery Panaderia O'Forno, treat yourself to a dobladillo, a thin and crispy pastry filled with almond paste. Then proceed to the nearby village of Buera to see Torno de Buera, an olive oil museum that features an 17th-century olive oil press. You can also taste some of the oil varieties, which surprisingly differ in flavor based on where in the region they come from. Wine-tasting choices abound here, but Enate in Salas Bajas stands out. A winery and art gallery, it's a place to sip a heritage vintage while learning about contemporary Spanish art. Zaragoza's Central Market has been selling local food since 1903. Savor the ultimate farm-to-table gastronomy Some of the best dishes in Aragon are found in local villages where produce literally comes to the table from a farm across the road. 'Some of Spain's best chefs are moving to the countryside for that super fresh produce,' says Cruells. 'Many rural restaurants join the 'zero kilometers' movement, in which ingredients travel as little as possible.' One of them is Molino de Larués, a cozy spot in the village of Larués; it boasts unique dishes like tomato-and-cherry soup with a dollop of ice-cream. Local chefs take pride in minimizing waste by using all parts of an animal. It's not uncommon to see dishes like 'stewed pigs' cheeks' on the menus—a tender, juicy delicacy you can try at La Cocinilla in Torla-Ordesa. For tapas, head to Nyibeta Degustacion in Buera to savor ternasco de Aragón—slow-roasted lamb with potatoes, and fideuá de pulpo—an octopus with short noodles. Aragon's chefs love experimenting with mixing bold ingredients too: In Zaragoza, stop by La Flor de Lis for a tomato-rabbit salad dressed with a pine nut vinaigrette and thyme-flavored ice-cream. Aragon chefs and restaurants pride themselves on sourcing ingredients from within the region. Photograph By Nano Calvo/VWPics/Redux (Top) (Left) and Photograph By Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock (Bottom) (Right) Hike, bike, and fly From glacier-covered peaks to majestic waterfalls, the Pyrenees are spectacular. Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park offers trails for all hiking levels as well as cycling and mountain biking routes. For a thrilling hike, take Ruta congosto de Entremón in Sobrarbe Geopark, where the paths, etched on the edges of forested cliffs, can be so narrow that you must hold on to ropes to keep walking. (8 of the best beach cities in Spain) Similarly exhilarating is a trek through the River Vero Canyon that begins outside of Alquézar and weaves through a network of passageways mounted on steep cliffs, overlooking gorges and waterfalls below. The Pyrenees-Mont Perdu area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photograph by Francois Laurens / Hans Luca/Redux 'If you're uncomfortable with heights, these walks are probably not for you,' cautions local guide Guayo Mulero. But if you crave the adrenaline rush, try 'flying like a bird' over the mountains at the Tirolina-Ordesa zipline, Mulero suggests. It's said to be the longest in Europe and the fastest in the world with a speed of nearly 100 miles per hour. A nomadic New Yorker, Lina Zeldovich shimmied with belly dancers in Turkey, cooked a zebu stew in Madagascar, fished for piranhas in the Amazon, paddled away from a calving iceberg in the Arctic, sipped a drink made from a venomous snake in Peru—and always lived to tell the story. She is the author of the book, The Living Medicine, part of which takes place in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Hong Kong Luxe: Where to Stay, Eat and Drink in Ultimate Style
Hong Kong Luxe: Where to Stay, Eat and Drink in Ultimate Style

Hypebeast

time7 hours ago

  • Hypebeast

Hong Kong Luxe: Where to Stay, Eat and Drink in Ultimate Style

There's a version ofHong Kongthat only the clued-in get to experience. A city of sky-high rooftop lounges, multi-sensory degustation menus, harbour-facing penthouse suites, and experiences so discreet you have to know, to know. If you're curating a trip that leans more elevated escape than quick layover, this is your entry point. Hong Kong is levelling up in 2025 — this is how to do it right. There's no shortage of five-star hotels in Hong Kong, but the secret is finding those that offer more than just marble lobbies and city views. AtThe Upper House, on Hong Kong Island, serenity is the real amenity. Designed to feel more like a private residence than a hotel, its rooms feature natural timber and stone exteriors, with windows that overlook Victoria Harbour and deep bathtubs built for soaking in the skyline. Over the other side of the harbour, in Tsim Sha Tsui,Rosewood Hong Kongcontinues to redefine contemporary luxury. Eleven restaurants and bars, a next-gen wellness center and personalised butler service make it the epitome of indulgence. Book the Grand Harbour Corner Suite for something truly special. Then there'sThe Peninsula, the city's original 'grande dame.' Vaulted ceilings, its own Rolls-Royce fleet and a Roman-style pool that faces Hong Kong Island keep it in a league of its own. For something newly revitalised, theRegent Hong Kongis back after a major redesign, bringing 129 luxurious suites and a renewed focus on service. Each of these stays offers bespoke services, comfort and amenities that'll make it hard to check out upon your departure. If you're after once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Hong Kong awaits. Start on the water with a private yacht charter around the islands. Operators like Lazydays or Breakaway offer fully catered day cruises with omakase chef experiences, bespoke itineraries and luxury vessels. Time your sail with golden hour for a surreal view of the city. If you'd rather view from the sky, several luxury hotels — including The Peninsula — offer helicopter transfers and exclusive sightseeing flights directly from their rooftops, making the journey just as luxurious as the destination. And for those who want to dial things up, consider booking the André Fu Suite at The Upper House for sophisticated, private fine dining, or a wine tasting experience at one of Rosewood's premium dining venues. There's no such thing as a bad meal in Hong Kong, but there is such a thing as a next-level one. AtWING, Chef Vicky Cheng's modern Chinese tasting menus are carefully crafted. Ranked 20th on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list, the fine dining restaurant reimagines nostalgic Chinese flavours with obsessive attention to detail. On a quiet corner of Sheung Wan,Racinesbrings modern French finesse to the table with a seven or nine-course dinner menu built around seasonal elegance and impeccable plating. Helmed by chef Romain Dupeyre, dining here feels intimate, thoughtful, and quietly confident. For something with fewer frills but just as much flavour, head to Yat Lok for its legendary roast goose. The skin crackles, the queues wrap around the corner, and the Michelin star speaks for itself. Sometimes luxury arrives on a plastic tray, rather than white linen. If a drink with a view is non-negotiable, start atOzone, the world's highest bar perched atop the Ritz-Carlton. But if you're more interested in flavour than floor level,ARGOat the Four Seasons is the place to go. Its concept focuses on innovation, with unique spirits and cocktails that read like a design experiment. Down in Soho, Bar Leone brings Rome to Hong Kong with cracking cocktails and a warm, neighbourhood vibe. It's earned the title ofAsia's Best Bartwice, yet carries itself with casual ease. There are theatrics here, just happy locals and excellent drinks. For something more exciting, suss out the Social Club Series. A favorite amongst the city's 'it' crowd, these pop-ups are an evolving mix of daytime parties with curated music and secret locations. No matter the location, the energy is always high and you can walk away early without a hangover. If you're looking to immerse yourself in Hong Kong's cultural scene, you're spoilt for choice. What makes this city truly exceptional is how seamlessly tradition and experimentation coexist, often within the same the museum of visual culture in West Kowloon, expect bold exhibitions that span design, moving image, digital media, conceptual art and photography — all within a striking Herzog & de Meuron-designed space that's become a creative hub for the region. A short ride across the harbour,Tai Kwunrepurposes the city's Former Central Police Station Compound into a cultural destination. Part heritage site, part open-air gallery, it's the perfect hosting space for exhibitions, performances, screenings and installations. There's alsoPMQ, which has long championed emerging design with fashion labels, artisans and concept stores hidden throughout its immense corridors. And for something immersive, Xiqu Centre offers a sensory deep dive into Cantonese opera and Chinese theatre in a venue equally as impressive as the performances. Round things off atThe Peak. Yes, it's a popular landmark for tourists. Yes, it's busy. But as the sun sets and the city lights up below, it still earns a place on any curated itinerary — especially when you see it as a kind of living, breathing art gallery. Hong Kong is a city that never stops evolving and where luxury is as much about knowledge as it is about access. Whether you're here for a week or a long layover, this is the version of Hong Kong worth exploring. For more inspiration and to start planning your own elevated Hong Kong itinerary, visit the Discover Hong Kongwebsite.

From Incredible Cuisine to One-of-a-Kind Accommodations, There's Never Been a Better Time to Visit Hyatt Regency Danang
From Incredible Cuisine to One-of-a-Kind Accommodations, There's Never Been a Better Time to Visit Hyatt Regency Danang

Yahoo

time9 hours ago

  • Yahoo

From Incredible Cuisine to One-of-a-Kind Accommodations, There's Never Been a Better Time to Visit Hyatt Regency Danang

Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2025 winner unveils elevated dining experiences and unparalleled family accommodations DANANG, Vietnam, July 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nestled on 49 acres of pristine tropical gardens with direct beachfront access, Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa emerges as the ultimate sanctuary where culinary artistry flourishes amid breathtaking natural surroundings. Fresh from its prestigious recognition as a Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2025 winner, this premium family-friendly resort invites discerning travelers to discover why there's never been a better time to experience Vietnam's premier multi-generational lifestyle destination. A Culinary Journey That Transcends Ordinary The resort's gastronomic landscape has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of flavors that captivates every palate. At the heart of this culinary renaissance lies Vive Océane - Beach Club & Restaurant, where pulsating energy meets beachfront sophistication. This dynamic venue comes alive with weekly and monthly events, including an August themed party featuring chef Hohyun from Park Hyatt Busan, where vibrant entertainment and exceptional dining converge. The popular Tropical Night events, weekend DRUNCH experience, and fire dance performances on Saturdays have become signature experiences that pulse with excitement into the evening. The magic continues at Terrasse, where the refined "Cocktails Connection" series brings world-class mixologists together with a live band, creating an atmosphere where every sip tells a story. Meanwhile, culinary theater reaches new heights with Le Petit Chef "In The Footsteps of Marco Polo," an immersive dining journey through history using cutting-edge projection mapping. Italian cuisine aficionados will delight in the refreshed menu at Osteria al Mare, where traditional recipes meet contemporary flair. Under the culinary leadership of chef Sanjay Kumar, the resort offers authentic Indian specialties, ensuring every palate discovers something extraordinary. The resort's comprehensive dining program extends to breakfast, offered across four venues. Osteria Al Mare features a full classic breakfast spread, while Vive Océane offers health-focused options alongside guest favorites. Xanh House serves made-to-order local and regional dishes with an extensive breakfast selection, and Regency Club provides an exclusive breakfast experience for premium guests. The Ultimate Multi-Generational Paradise The resort's exceptional setting features five outdoor pools and over 700 meters of pristine beachfront, creating an aquatic playground for all ages. Its diverse accommodation includes 199 guest rooms and suites with ocean or garden views, all with private balconies. The 145 residences offer one to three bedrooms with hotel-style luxury and home-like comfort, while 23 three-bedroom pool villas feature private pools, full kitchens, and lush gardens ideal for family retreats. Excellence Recognized The Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2025 recognition validates that Hyatt Regency Danang represents the pinnacle of Vietnamese hospitality, acknowledging the genuine warmth, attention to detail, and commitment to exceeding expectations that create exceptional experiences. There's never been a better time to discover why this resort continues setting the standard for multi-generational luxury travel in Southeast Asia. For more informationTel: +84 236 3981 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store