Once a ghost town where young people were leaving for better opportunities elsewhere, southern Italy’s Stornara has undergone a remarkable transformation. Thanks to over 140 vibrant murals, the small town located in the Puglia region now attracts tourists from around the world, showcasing how art can breathe new life into neglected communities.
Lino Lombardi, a 57-year-old local artist, initiated this change in 2017 with the launch of the Stramurales street art festival. Initially met with skepticism, Lombardi’s vision of transforming derelict walls into beautiful creations eventually resonated with the community. The festival has since grown, with artists from all over the world contributing new murals every year, each highlighting different themes such as agriculture, migration within Italy, and local life.
The impact has been profound. Since 2020, tourism has increased by 25%, leading to the establishment of eight new businesses, including restaurants and B&Bs. This economic revival has helped reverse the town’s population decline, with young families beginning to return and settle in the area. Local residents like Antonio Maglione, a café owner, have witnessed firsthand how the murals have reinvigorated the community, with the influx of tourists forcing him to learn multiple languages to accommodate the diverse visitors.
Residents like Rita Gensano, who had previously left the town, describe the transformation as extraordinary. Now a tour guide, she calls Stornara ‘the coolest town in Italy.’ Salvatore Nappi, a retired olive farmer, notes that the murals have helped restore a sense of pride among locals, reminding them of their cultural value and community identity.
Stramurales, now operating as a nonprofit organization, continues to host art workshops for high school students, ensuring that the creative spirit endures. The festival is set to feature artists from every continent in 2025, reflecting its growing international reputation. Lombardi, reflecting on the journey, emphasizes the significance of artistic expression in reviving not just physical spaces, but the spirit of entire communities. Stornara’s story serves as an inspiring example of how creative initiatives can lead to remarkable social and economic changes, offering lessons to other towns seeking revitalization through art.