Imagine an italian medieval village, long forgotten, wrapped in silence and time. Now picture it coming back to life, transformed into a thriving ecovillage, where nature and community blend in perfect harmony. This is the story of Torri Superiore, a historic hilltop village near Ventimiglia, now a model of sustainability, ecotourism, and social inclusion.

The Transformation of Torri Superiore

In the 1980s, Torri Superiore was little more than a collection of crumbling buildings overtaken by nature. A group of visionaries, however, saw its potential. They imagined a future where this abandoned place could once again shelter a vibrant, self-sufficient community.

Since 1989, a long process of architectural and social regeneration has been underway. Every stone has been carefully repositioned, and every space redesigned to be functional, ecological, and in harmony with the surroundings.

Today, Torri Superiore is home to 25 residents, a cultural center, and a guesthouse that welcomes travelers from around the world eager to experience this unique model of regeneration.

A Sustainable Way of Life

At Torri Superiore, life follows a natural rhythm, shaped by collaboration and shared responsibility. Decisions are made collectively in weekly meetings, and daily tasks are carried out cooperatively. Instead of private ownership, common spaces are maintained together, and meals are often prepared in a collective kitchen.

Energy needs are met with solar power, while a sophisticated water collection and filtration system minimizes waste. The village follows permaculture principles, ensuring a sustainable and local food supply.

The buildings have been restored using eco-friendly materials, avoiding cement in favor of wood, stone, and natural lime. The philosophy is simple: take only what nature can replenish, working with the land rather than exploiting it.

Learning and Transformation

Beyond being a residential community, Torri Superiore is a center for sustainability education. Workshops and courses on permaculture, natural building, and community living offer hands-on learning experiences.

The village also welcomes students and researchers, providing experiential learning programs in community management and energy efficiency. Participants gain practical skills in ecological construction, organic farming, and collaborative decision-making.

Eco-Tourism and Hospitality

Torri Superiore is not an isolated retreat but a place open to the world. The community embraces ecotourism, offering visitors a chance to stay in restored rooms, enjoy meals made with local ingredients, and take part in daily activities.

Here, hospitality is immersive—guests are not just tourists but become part of a living community, sharing experiences and gaining inspiration. Workshops and retreats cover topics from sustainability to personal growth, providing deep connections with nature.

Social Inclusion and Solidarity

Sustainability at Torri Superiore is not just about the environment—it also means building strong social bonds. The community runs a social cooperative that provides employment and training opportunities, particularly for asylum seekers. This initiative fosters integration and mutual support, creating a truly inclusive space.

How to Get Involved?

Anyone interested in experiencing this unique community can do so in several ways. Volunteers and visitors can take part in ecotourism programs, assisting with daily activities or joining work camps and training courses.

It is also possible to stay in the village, fully immersing in a sustainable lifestyle while learning ecological and social practices firsthand. Additionally, the ecovillage hosts events and thematic retreats, open to those who wish to explore a more mindful and communal way of living.

In Conclusion

The regenerated village of Torri Superiore is a true living laboratory of sustainability and community. Nestled in the Ligurian hinterland, near Ventimiglia, it is home to 25 permanent residents and welcomes numerous visitors and volunteers each year.

Here, environmental sustainability, shared living, social inclusion, and personal and collective growth form the foundation of a new way of life. Torri Superiore stands as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how forgotten spaces can be transformed into thriving communities, reshaping the way we live and connect.