The Island of Capra Unica: A Revitalised Hamlet
In this article, we explore the story of the Island of Capra Unica, a revitalised hamlet located in Ruora di Caprauna, in the Cuneo area. Discover how this scattered community, founded by a group of professionals and families who left the hustle and bustle of Milan, is creating an inclusive, sustainable, and innovative way of life. From the project “L'asilo nel Borgo” to sustainable farming practices and initiatives focused on sharing and ecology, Capra Unica is a tangible example of how to revitalise a hamlet while promoting sustainability and collective wellbeing.
The Story of Capra Unica
The Island of Capra Unica was born in the hamlet of Ruora di Caprauna, a tiny village in Cuneo with just over a hundred residents. Here, a group of professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, and families decided to create a scattered community focused on sharing, ecology, and wellbeing.
This initiative took shape through the purchase of abandoned houses in Italy and donations of land and properties, transforming this hamlet into a place of peace and new beginnings. The project aims to revitalise the village, creating a space for both personal and collective growth, where people can live in harmony with nature.
A New Way of Life
The Capra Unica project has attracted more than ten people, all united by a desire to build a more authentic and sustainable life. Leaving behind the fast pace of city life, this group began restoring houses, setting up gardens, and building a support network based on sharing and sustainability.
One of the most meaningful initiatives has been the creation of “L'asilo nel Borgo,” a space dedicated to the village’s children, symbolising the community’s commitment to a better future. With initiatives like this, Capra Unica is becoming a role model for those who dream of repopulating Italy’s abandoned villages.
Sustainability as Both a Challenge and a Goal
Despite the challenges, the Capra Unica community continues to draw in residents and volunteers eager to participate in sustainable farming projects. One of the village’s key products is the white turnip, a typical local vegetable, sold to high-end restaurants in Milan.
This production not only supports the local economy but also promotes eco-friendly agricultural practices, showing that a low-impact lifestyle is achievable. The community works together to restore homes, cultivate shared gardens, and create spaces for bulk product sales, strengthening social bonds and building a more sustainable, resilient way of life.
A Place of Learning
The Island of Capra Unica is not just a residential community but also a centre of learning. Here, natural medicine is practised, educational events are organised, and meaningful connections are made between residents and volunteers who arrive from all over Italy. This exchange of knowledge and skills enriches the community, offering personal and collective growth opportunities for everyone involved. In this way, the hamlet of Capra Unica has become a true point of reference for anyone interested in a community-driven lifestyle.
The Future of Capra Unica
The dream of the Island of Capra Unica is to continue expanding, becoming a model for similar initiatives in Italy and around the world. The community evolves with the arrival of new families and the organisation of public events, continuing to promote a lifestyle that’s sustainable and closely connected to nature. The community hopes to prove that reviving abandoned villages is possible and that creating a lifestyle based on sustainability, sharing, and welcome can offer a real alternative to urban living.
In Conclusion
The Island of Capra Unica shows that revitalising an abandoned hamlet by creating a community based on sharing, sustainability, and welcome is not only possible but also offers a rich and transformative experience for those who live it.