LUMEN, meaning "light" in Latin, is the name Davide Pirovano and Milena Simeoni gave to their vision in 1992. One day, they came across an old farmhouse in San Pietro in Cerro, in the italian Po Valley. Without overthinking, they decided to invest their skills, energy, and savings into this place that radiated potential.

Initially, their goal was to change their own lives, start a riding stable, and promote healthy lifestyles through natural medicine. However, after launching their courses and opening the School of Naturopathy, some participants began to see the property, its unique context, and the group as the perfect opportunity to start an intentional community. And so, the first small group of residents came together.

The early years were a time of great energy and transformation. The property needed significant reconstruction and upgrades, and people from all over Europe came to help. Today, in less than three decades, LUMEN has become home to 60 people. And while birth rates in Italy are at historic lows, here, 30 children grow up together!

Daily life and organization

LUMEN embraces a healthy lifestyle that integrates natural and holistic medicine, emphasizing healthy eating, psychophysical well-being, sustainability, and collaboration. Every member contributes to managing the community, taking part in activities like organic farming, preparing vegetarian meals, maintaining shared spaces, and organizing seminars and events.

A typical day alternates between communal work, personal development sessions, and free time, all within an environment that values human connections and the bond with Nature.

Education and raising children

One of the defining features of LUMEN is its focus on children. Education plays a central role in the community’s daily life, combining homeschooling and education from teachers who live in the village. Every adult shares their skills, creating a rich and stimulating learning environment.

After completing elementary school, the children transition to the public school system. Thanks to the education received at LUMEN, they are well-prepared to thrive in this change while continuing to carry forward the values they learned in the community.

Energy self-sufficiency at LUMEN

At LUMEN, achieving energy self-sufficiency is a core value. Currently, solar panels cover 43% of the village’s energy needs, with the goal of reaching 100%. This commitment to energy independence is an integral part of the community’s sustainable philosophy.

The ecovillage continues to expand, with fully self-sufficient buildings already operational. New eco-friendly construction projects, including wood and straw houses, are underway to welcome families on the waiting list to join LUMEN.

The economic and decision-making model

To sustain itself financially, LUMEN runs various activities, including naturopathy courses, holistic wellness centers, and massage therapy services. The community also manages a bioshop and e-commerce platform, offering carefully selected products for meditation and natural health. This economic model ensures stability and a sustainable future for all its members.

One of the most fascinating aspects of life at LUMEN is the decision-making process. Decisions are made through sharing circles, where every member has the opportunity to express their perspective. For the residents of LUMEN, conflict resolution is viewed as an opportunity for growth. Disagreements are not avoided but addressed constructively through non-violent communication, enabling members to better understand themselves and improve their relationships.

Health and well-being at LUMEN

Psychophysical health lies at the heart of LUMEN’s mission. The community offers detox programs, personal development courses, and holistic wellness services. Every visitor receives a personalized plan to enhance their quality of life, which may include changes in diet, stress management techniques, and interpersonal growth strategies.

Expansion and future

LUMEN is actively expanding its model of an intentional community. The goal is to create new hubs in different locations, adhering to the same principles and values. This expansion reflects the growing demand for sustainable and community-based lifestyles.

The community is currently open to new members who share the intention of living in a more authentic, integrated, and self-sufficient way. Each new member is seen as a valuable resource who can contribute to collective growth and well-being. Visitors are always welcome to experience the community firsthand.

In a Nutshell

The LUMEN ecovillage is a vibrant model of a strong and diverse community that can inspire many others. Its combination of self-sufficiency, education, and health creates a fertile environment for personal and collective growth. If values like sustainability, holistic well-being, collaboration, and respect for Nature resonate with you, then LUMEN might just be the community you’ve been searching for.