- A small town in Sicily is selling abandoned properties for a single euro, but buyers must agree to renovate them within three years.
- In addition to being relatively close to Naples and the Amalfi coast, the 11,000-person town of Mussomeli boasts ancient churches, Byzantine caves, and a medieval castle.
- Many of the abandoned properties are crumbling or decaying, but they're just steps away from incredible scenery.
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Italy's small towns may be scenic respites from touristy cities like Rome and Venice, but they're struggling to hold on to residents.
Across the country, quaint villages and rural hamlets have taken to selling their abandoned properties for a single euro or less with the hopes of boosting their populations.
Read more: 9 cities and towns where you can get a home for free - or buy one at a massive discount
One of the largest of these programs is now taking place in Mussomeli, a southern town in Sicily that's mere hours away from Naples and the Amalfi Coast. The local government is selling 100 abandoned properties online (a few of which have already been purchased), with another 400 expected to join the program in the near future.
Though many of the properties are in desperate need of renovation, the town itself has plenty of local charm. In addition to ancient churches, Byzantine caves, and a medieval castle, Mussomeli boasts culinary delicacies like hanging caciocavallo cheese and bread baked in wood-burning ovens.
The town is also located about 2,500 above sea level, so there's less of a concern about it being washed away by the next big flood.
Take a look at the abandoned stone properties that the government is selling for one euro (a little more than a dollar).