Il successo del volo dell'angelo | Nicola Valluzzi | TEDxLUMSA

15 May 2024 (7 months ago)
Il successo del volo dell'angelo | Nicola Valluzzi | TEDxLUMSA

The Revitalization of Castelmezzano

  • The mayor of Castelmezzano described the town's decline, including the closure of essential services and a shrinking population.
  • Determined to revitalize the town, the mayor and the community showcased its unique beauty and history.
  • Inspired by a chance encounter, they created the zip line, Volo dell'Angelo, connecting Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa.
  • The zip line's success attracted tourists and generated economic opportunities for the region.
  • Castelmezzano became part of "I Borghi più Belli d'Italia," enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.

The Success of the Flight of the Angel

  • The Flight of the Angel zip line was built in 2007 in Basilicata, Italy, despite environmental opposition.
  • Over 221,000 people have experienced the zip line, generating €7.6 million in revenue.
  • The attraction's website has had 5 million unique visitors and 19 million page views.
  • 70% of tickets are purchased online, making it one of Italy's most profitable e-commerce platforms.
  • The zip line's success has created 400 new jobs in the hospitality sector and revitalized the local economy.
  • Castelmezzano has been recognized as a successful model of community tourism by the World Tourism Organization and the FAO.
  • The town has become a popular filming location, further boosting tourism.

Additional Developments and Future Plans

  • Other attractions have been developed in the area, including via ferratas, hiking trails, and a multimedia show.
  • A new monorail toboggan ride is set to open in the summer of 2023.
  • Castelmezzano has become a well-known international tourist destination.

The Role of the Mayor and Civic Engagement

  • The mayor's role involves serving as a custodian of the community's hopes, expectations, and needs.
  • The goal is to create a stable and sustainable development trajectory despite present challenges.
  • Civic engagement and public service are seen as acts of care towards the people and the town.
  • The aim is to preserve and regenerate history, identity, culture, and traditions.
  • The ultimate objective is to provide future generations with hope for the future.

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