Santo Stefano di Sessanio in L’Aquila

This is the winner of a Prize

This initiative aimed to salvage and restore minor architectural heritage of a medieval fortified village, which had been deserted and abandoned through its rehabilitation as an extended hotel. As well as accommodation and catering, the complex plans include workshops for traditional craftsmanship, a wine cellar, shops for the areas gastronomic products, an inn, services for tourism and related activities, a conference centre and meeting rooms, a wellness centre, and a centre for excursions.

The selected approach has preserved the patina of the age and evidence of past lives lived in poverty, such as the smoke-blackened plasters, as an integral part of heritage.

“For an ingenious human and ecological approach to preserve and activate a deserted medieval fortified village, that sets a precedent for reviving rural architectural heritage throughout Europe.”

More information
santostefano.sextantio.it/en