Embracing Slow Living: A New Approach to Progress in Santo Stefano
- femkevaniperen
- Jul 9
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
In the once-abandoned mountain village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, east of Rome, Italy, a unique approach to progress has been attracting global interest. Local authorities now support the creative strategies of Daniele Kihlgren, renowned internationally as a maverick. In this place, history, modernity, and the philosophy of slow living come together.
It was the late 1990s, when Daniele Kihlgren came across an abandoned village named Santo Stefano di Sessanio, located east of Rome, Italy. Beyond the medieval houses and a church standing quietly against the Abruzzo mountains, Kihlgren saw potential—a chance for revival and progress.
This vision has since transformed into a famous slow travel narrative, frequently featured by media outlets globally, often emphasising 'the maverick' and his unique approach. So today, in this enchanting, flourishing Italian mountain village, once ignored, time curiously appears to both stand still and move forward at the same time.
A Proper Second Chance
It wasn't solely about restoring a location. Kihlgren's perspective on development and progress was unique. He aimed to shield the village from developers who might transform it into a tourist hub. His goal was to safeguard it from overtourism and preserve its history, essence, and character.
Moreover, he sought to ensure that local income remained within the community, unlike what frequently occurs when tourist developments dominate, as observed on the Mediterranean island of Ibiza. He wanted to provide the village and its residents with a true second opportunity.
So, in many respects, Kihlgren chose an alternative route that day. For instance, a new perspective on progress also emerged, emphasising a reflection on the past as well as an appreciation for a location and its future. And a love for the art of slow living.
Embracing Slow Living
Contemporary slow travellers are drawn to the village of Santo Stefano by its Albergo Diffuso concept. Whether they come from distant countries or nearby Rome in search of a tranquil work setting, they typically steer clear of rushing to discover activities. Instead, they seek a leisurely travel experience, engaging with residents on the cobblestone streets, enjoying coffee in the picturesque square, or savouring a local walnut liqueur at a quaint bar managed by the granddaughter of a once-renowned local shepherd.
The hotel concept features rooms scattered throughout the village. Although the original medieval rooms and buildings are equipped with modern conveniences, Kihlgren has maintained their historical integrity. Furthermore, small local businesses are thriving. For example, local linen is crafted for the hotel bedspreads using traditional techniques from the region. "The majority of the initiatives set up after our [restoration] efforts are activities focussed on families within the local community," Kihlgren told us.
Kihlgren has also discovered some of the historical stories associated with the rooms available to guests. For instance, one room used to serve as a gathering place for women and children to share stories and stay warm alongside cattle that had descended from the mountains for the winter.
Overall, there are no historical replicas typical of tourist attractions at Santo Stefano. Everything is authentic and crafted by the local community. "We offer an opportunity to rediscover and improve authentic Italy," he further explained. "Away from traditional tourist destinations, but rich in history, culture and beauty."
"We offer an opportunity to rediscover and improve authentic Italy. Away from traditional tourist destinations, but rich in history, culture and beauty."
There's Progress in Ancient History
Kihlgren's vision of slow living has also influenced the village's restaurant kitchens. By collaborating with an anthropologist from the 'Museo delle Genti d'Abruzzo' (Museum of the Abruzzo People), the culinary heritage of the region's past generations has been explored and documented. "We discovered many elements of the village's traditional, ancient cooking techniques," Kihlgren noted, highlighting that this history, rooted in the 'agro-pastoral calendar,' now serves as inspiration for the menus.
"An example of such ritual, agro-pastoralism dishes includes all the sweets of Easter,” Kihlgren said. "They celebrate ‘abundance’ with the return of the new season and the end of winter. Cooking in this way, expresses a cyclical view of the world and of time. It is one that is far removed from that of today," he reflected. To which he added: "These dishes often transcend their nutritional role and become a means of communication with the supernatural world.”
"We found traces of the village's traditional, age-old cooking methods. These dishes often transcend their nutritional role and become a means of communication with the supernatural world."
Progress, Slow Living, and What Lies Ahead
A recent development in this project includes a small yet symbolic action by local authorities from both the Abruzzo region and the municipality of Santo Stefano di Sessanio. In support of the slow travel initiative, they opted to demolish a concrete former bank building from the 1970s.
In a distinctive move, officials determined that it disrupted the village's historic ambiance and impacted the surrounding landscape. This decision came after years of debate about the future of these villages, Kihlgren noted. Rural areas such as these host a significant portion of Italy's numerous abandoned or semi-abandoned villages.
Conclusion
While progress often has the focus on 'the future,' this unique project in the mountains near Rome highlights that integrity and historical heritage are just as important. "The story of Santo Stefano di Sessanio shows us how preserving historical heritage can drive economic growth," said Kihlgren.
"It started with a single accommodation facility in the 1990s," he continued. "Today, the village features twenty-three hospitality businesses, along with restaurants and artisan shops. This growth has reversed the demographic decline, drawing in young people and families. It also helps stimulate a new local economy. This kind of development can contribute to promoting quality and sustainable slow travel. The success of this approach is evident," he concluded.
"The story of Santo Stefano di Sessanio shows us how preserving historical heritage can drive economic growth."
About the cuisine of Agro-Pastoralism
The menus at the Santo Stefano restaurants draw inspiration from the region's traditional agro-pastoral culinary heritage. Pastries in the shapes of 'taralli,' 'pupazze,' and 'cavalli' were given as gifts to children. The horse symbolised strength, and
the Abruzzese pupa is a local customary Easter cake. Beyond its religious importance, it symbolises a tale of love and sharing, handed down through the generations. Since the 1800s, the pupa and the horse have been made for engagement ceremonies, symbolising good fortune. The pupa was given to the groom's family, while the horse was presented to the bride's family. This tradition is linked to Easter and the Christian symbols of resurrection and the Last Supper.
Source: Sextantio
About The Sextantio Project
The Sextantio initiative is responsible for the village's development and the Albergo Diffuso concept. Through its distinctive conservative restoration approach, it has revitalised villages that were once deserted by people seeking better opportunities. The project's founder, Daniele Kihlgren, has broadened the slow travel initiative by incorporating more villages and travel spots. Sextantio's second historic village, Matera, is situated in southern Italy, surrounded by ancient caves and stone structures. Their latest project is in Africa, specifically the Capanne (HUTS) Project in Rwanda, which emphasizes slow travel and maintaining the area's authenticity. Additionally, it offers health insurance support to local inhabitants. So far, approximately 500 proposals for village regeneration have been submitted to the project.
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