Officina Sociale "La Faglia"
About this good practice
La Faglia good practice addresses the problem of rural depopulation and the abandonment of cultural and public spaces, which erode community bonds and socio-cultural dynamics. By revitalizing an old building, it transforms neglected spaces into vibrant social and cultural hubs, fostering community engagement and territorial ownership. The practice involved active citizen participation through workshops, such as those for creative arts, fire performance, and local dialect, engaging over 300 people. It restored the building into a multipurpose center for coworking, gatherings, and cultural activities, providing a space where residents and visitors can connect and work, encouraging urban-to-rural migration. The main targets are rural residents, particularly those at risk of social isolation, and urban citizens looking for a sense of community. Through inclusive engagement of professionals, local businesses, and associations, La Faglia strengthened the social fabric and created a replicable model for regions aiming to regenerate abandoned spaces and combat rural depopulation.
Resources needed
The project was funded with a total of €37,306, with €34,000 provided through PSL measures. To set up the practice10 professionals from various associations were involved contributing expertise in project management, community engagement, architecture, heritage conservation, and artistic production.
Evidence of success
This practice is considered successful due to its strong community engagement and cultural impact. Over 320 participants (various age groups) took part in workshops, 345 attended events focused on local culture and traditions. 30 individuals participated in guided tours, with online live streams extending its reach. The project successfully raised awareness of local heritage and food/wine excellence, demonstrating both tangible and qualitative successes in social regeneration and sustainability.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice is highly transferable to other regions due to its bottom-up approach that actively involves citizens of all ages and engages local associations. The key success factor lies in identifying underused cultural spaces or assets and revitalizing them through community-driven activities like workshops, music, theatre, and local heritage recovery. Such regeneration efforts can stimulate both social and economic benefits, fostering a strong sense of community ownership and reducing depopulation. However, successful transfer requires strong community involvement, skilled local associations, and adequate planning to ensure sustainability. Regions with existing cultural assets, active volunteer networks, and a willingness to engage in participatory practices are ideal candidates for this practice.
Further information
Good practice owner
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