By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Rebirth from Ruins, The Artists's Resurgence
In the rain soaked medieval village of Bussana Vecchia, the silence of narrow, cobblestone streets is occasionally interrupted by the warm light from workshop windows. Here, artisans like Nina Franco, a puppet maker dressed in paint spotted overalls, have transformed ruins into creative sanctuaries. Franco, a recent addition to the community, shares her space with felt hand puppets and varnished wooden marionettes. Despite the unfinished parts of her home, she embodies the village's spirit of self reliance and artistic revival.
This once abandoned hilltop settlement, devastated by an earthquake in 1887, began its journey of rebirth in the late 1950s. Mario Giani, a ceramist from Turin, envisioned Bussana Vecchia as an artists's commune. His idea attracted creatives from all over Europe, drawn by the freedom to rebuild homes and create art amidst the rubble. Long time resident Erminia Pascucci recalls the early days of living without modern conveniences, enchanted by the simplicity and raw beauty of the place. Today, the village, with its mosaics, street art, and sculptures, stands as a testament to this vibrant artistic legacy.
The Struggle for Survival, Eviction Threats and Community Resilience
Despite its transformation into a beloved tourist spot, Bussana Vecchia faces an uncertain future. In 2017, residents received eviction notices, deeming them illegal squatters. This sparked a community response, leading to the formation of a collective known as I Resilienti. Their goal is to gain recognition as rightful owners of the homes they've painstakingly rebuilt.
The local authorities plans to auction off the houses or impose fines have been met with resistance. Residents like Pascucci express frustration over the contradictory stance of promoting Bussana Vecchia as an artistic gem while simultaneously threatening its unique character. The regional mayor's vision of turning the village into a "jewel" has raised fears among locals that commercialization will strip Bussana Vecchia of its bohemian essence.
Negotiations between the residents and authorities have been prolonged and contentious. While some villagers seek full property rights, others are content with a concession allowing them to stay in exchange for a nominal rent. Amidst this legal and bureaucratic battle, the community remains united in preserving the intangible spirit of freedom and creativity that has defined Bussana Vecchia for six decades. Their determination ensures that, despite the challenges, the village's artistic heart continues to beat.