Financial support and guidance for homes in Calabria

The Calabria region in southern Italy has launched a new initiative designed to combat depopulation and revitalize small villages across the region.

Through a pilot project called Ripopola Calabria, financial support may become available for people interested in purchasing and renovating homes in villages with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants.

The project focuses on giving unused properties new life while encouraging long-term relocation to Calabria.

One example is the municipality of Palizzi, which had a population of 1,826 inhabitants as of December 2025.

According to the regional proposal, support may reach up to €2,000 per square meter, with a maximum contribution of €280,000 per housing unit.

The initiative aims to create sustainable development in smaller communities while preserving existing buildings and encouraging people to settle in Calabria for at least ten years.

Program phases

Phase 1 – Registration of potential applicants

The first phase is intended for individuals and families who would like to receive more information about the project and potential properties included in the initiative.

This stage allows municipalities to understand the level of interest and begin mapping properties that may become available for renovation and residential use.

Are you interested in receiving more information?

Phase 2 – Property registration and project development

In the second phase, the selected properties will be registered by the municipality and evaluated according to regional requirements.

The properties must:

comply with urban planning regulations
be approved for residential use
fit the goals of the regional revitalization project

Housing solutions suitable for different family types will be prioritized, ranging from homes for single residents to larger properties for families.

The project may include:

architectural planning
structural renovations
seismic improvements
energy efficiency upgrades
technical development costs
completion of fully functional homes

Projects requiring new land development will not be eligible. The initiative applies exclusively to the purchase and renovation of existing properties.

Phase 3 – Applications from interested buyers

Once the mapping and approval process has been completed, an online showcase of available homes is expected to be launched.

Interested buyers will then be able to apply for support connected to approved renovation projects.

The overall goal is not simply to renovate buildings, but to help create active and sustainable communities in Calabria’s smaller villages.

Why Calabria?

Calabria is known for its warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, beautiful coastline, mountain landscapes, and lower living costs compared to many other parts of Italy.

Many smaller villages offer a calm environment, local traditions, and a slower pace of life that attracts people looking for a different way of living.

For those dreaming about relocating to southern Italy, this initiative may create new opportunities to purchase and restore homes while becoming part of local communities.

Interested in learning more?

If you would like to receive updates and information about available properties and future phases of the project, you can register your interest to stay informed as the initiative develops.