
If you’ve heard about Italy’s “one-euro homes” but thought they were all gone, think again! The charming town of Penne in central Italy is offering a new chance to own a piece of history — for the price of a coffee. But there’s a catch: you must promise to restore it.
Located in the Abruzzo region, Penne sits between the Adriatic Sea and the Gran Sasso mountains. Once bustling with life, its historic center now faces a silent crisis. Decades of emigration (外迁) have left over 40 ancient homes abandoned. Mayor Gilberto Petrucci, a Penne native, launched the program in 2022 to revive the town’s heart. “It just hurts me so much to see these houses just lying there abandoned. It’s like a wound.” he says.
Unlike other “one-euro home” programs that require a deposit (押金) of €2,000–€5,000, Penne asks only for a commitment of renovation. Buyers must complete repairs within three years. To help, the town provides free architectural advice, connects buyers with builders, and even offers design blueprints. The cost? A basic renovation starts at around €20,000.
The homes in Penne for sale range from medieval stone houses to early 20th-century buildings. Some date back to the Renaissance, with arched doorways and stone staircases. They’re up to three stories tall, with 750 - 1,300 square feet of space. For those not ready for major work, “turnkey” homes (already renovated) start at €40,000.
Petrucci’s program focuses on flexibility and support. “We want to welcome people who love history,” he explains. If multiple buyers are interested, the home goes to the one with the fastest and most creative renovation plan. Already, six homes have been sold, mostly to Italians, with more batches coming soon.
While Penne’s program is unique, it’s part of a broader movement. Sicily leads the way, with towns like Mussomeli and Sambuca offering similar deals. Even Sardinia now has one-euro homes. But Penne’s mix of history, natural beauty, and hands-on support makes it a standout choice.
So, could you imagine restoring a medieval home in Italy? Penne might just be the perfect place to start.
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