INTERNATIONAL PRESSAbstract
“This section presents a curated selection of international media articles on the Albergo Diffuso model. From the early 2000s to today, leading newspapers, magazines and broadcasters have described how this Italian innovation is regenerating villages, supporting local communities and inspiring new forms of sustainable hospitality.”
Albergo Diffuso in the International Press
- Executive Overview
1.1 Evolution of the “Albergo Diffuso” Image in the Press (2003–2024) – Report by Giancarlo Dall’Ara - Understanding the Albergo Diffuso Model
2.1 What exactly is an Albergo Diffuso? (introductory slideshare)
2.2 Recent Interviews with Giancarlo Dall’Ara- From “Scattered Hotel” to “Living Like a Resident” – Core definitions and concepts
- International Feature Articles (English)
3.1 “How Alberghi Diffusi Turn Villages Into Hotels” – Smithsonian Magazine
3.2 Travel & Leisure – Reviving the Italian Village and scattered hotels features
3.3 The New York Times – “Saving Towns by Filling Rooms in Italy”
3.4 National Geographic Traveler – “The Towns Italy Forgot”
3.5 The Times / Sunday Times – Italian villages as new hotel hotspots
3.6 Bloomberg – “Is Your Town Nearing Extinction? Try Turning It Into a Resort”
3.7 CNN – Features on hamlet hotels and spiritual hotels in Italy
3.8 Click Booking – “The rise of scattered hotels”
3.9 Other English-language features (OZY, Business Today, Getting On Travel, Budget Travel, etc.) - Sustainability, Regeneration and Responsible Tourism
4.1 Ecobnb, Greenplanner and sustainable travel blogs on Alberghi Diffusi
4.2 Reform Travel – “One of the world’s most sustainable hotel concepts”
4.3 Articles on saving ghost towns and rural regeneration (Italy, Switzerland, Croatia, etc.) - Albergo Diffuso Around the World
5.1 Switzerland and Central Europe – Corippo and other village hotels
5.2 Spain and Portugal – “Mi hotel es un pueblo” and related features
5.3 Brazil, Mexico and Latin America – Immersion and authentic luxury
5.4 Canada – Policy and tourism development perspectives
5.5 India, Indonesia and other Asian markets - Focus on Key Case Studies
6.1 Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Sextantio
6.2 Matera and Le Grotte della Civita
6.3 Other iconic Alberghi Diffusi (BorgoVistalago, Romagna diffusa, etc.) - German-Language Coverage
7.1 Major newspapers and magazines (Die Welt, Die Zeit, Süddeutsche Zeitung, etc.)
7.2 TV features and documentaries (ZDF, DW, etc.)
7.3 Articles on “the whole village as a hotel” and slow tourism - French-, Spanish- and Portuguese-Language Coverage
8.1 France – “Hôtels horizontaux” and new forms of hospitality
8.2 Spain – Albergo Diffuso as a model for abandoned villages
8.3 Brazil and Portugal – Authentic immersion and village experiences - Asian Perspectives (China and Japan)
9. 1 he most recent book on the Albergo Diffuso published in Japan - 9.2 Japan – Articles, conferences and projects inspired by the Albergo Diffuso
9.3 Chinese media – “Scattered hotel” as a model for village regeneration - Media on the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI)
10.1 Institutional recognition and awards (World Travel Market Global Award, etc.) - Videos and TV Features
- Additional Resources (PDF), Articles and Blogs
- Articles from South Korean Press / 한국 언론 보도 기사: Click here/여기를 클릭하세요
“For more than two decades, leading newspapers, magazines and broadcasters have covered the Albergo Diffuso as an innovative Italian model of sustainable hospitality and village regeneration. This international press review collects feature stories, reports and TV programmes that describe how this ‘scattered hotel’ concept turns historic villages into places to live, not only to stay, and how the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI) has shaped, protected and promoted the model worldwide.”
Evolution of the “Albergo Diffuso” Image in the Press (2003–2024) – Report by Giancarlo Dall’Ara
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The Image of the Albergo Diffuso
- 2003-2014: During these years, the Albergo Diffuso (AD) emerged as an innovative model deeply rooted in the territory—a unique hospitality experience and a way to immerse oneself in the culture of a village (borgo). The press emphasized its “horizontal” nature, in contrast to traditional hotels, focusing on authenticity and integration into local life.
- Subsequent Years: The image conveyed by the Italian and international press consolidated and expanded. The AD is increasingly seen as a sustainable hospitality model that promotes the restoration of existing buildings and the enhancement of local heritage. Concepts such as responsible tourism, combating the depopulation of rural villages, and creating new job opportunities for local communities have become central.
- From “Scattered Hotel” to “Life Experience”: The language used to describe the AD has evolved from technical definitions like “scattered hotel” or “distributed hotel” to expressions emphasizing the experiential aspect, such as “living like a resident” and, most notably, “part home, part hotel.”
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Changes in Perception: Journalists and Readers
- Initially, the Albergo Diffuso was primarily viewed as an alternative to traditional hotels—a place to live as a “temporary resident” and delve into local culture. It was seen as a way to discover traditions and customs while adding value to the history of the territory.
- Over time, the AD has evolved into a true model for sustainable development and a tool for the revitalization of villages. It is no longer just a place to stay, but an engine of change for local communities, promoting responsible tourism with a low environmental impact.
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The Evolving Role of the Managers
- In the early years, the AD manager was expected to be an integral part of the community, transmitting local culture and offering an authentic life experience. Management was not standardized but had a distinct “local flavor,” attentive to both the tourist’s needs and the community’s well-being.
- Subsequently, the role has evolved into that of “visionary entrepreneurs”—custodians of the territory and creators of authentic experiences. Beyond coordinating facilities and services, managers must now promote the destination’s attractions, build positive relationships with the local community, and ensure the project’s economic and environmental sustainability. They have become, in essence, ambassadors of the territory. Press sources highlight the importance of specific skills, vision, passion, and a strong territorial bond.
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Evolution of the Scenario
- From Sustainability to Regeneration: While environmental sustainability remains a constant focus, the concept has expanded to include the social and cultural regeneration of villages and local communities.
- Emerging Trends: The international press highlights new trends such as specialized offerings (food and wine, nature, wellness) and the integration of new technologies.
- Regulatory Framework: Early sources frequently mentioned regulatory complexity as a hurdle. The decreased prominence of this topic in recent reviews suggests an adaptation by operators to the legislative framework, which nonetheless remains complex.
- Professionalization: The AD has moved from a “pioneering initiative” to an increasingly structured and professional hospitality model, thanks in large part to the role of the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI).
In Conclusion
The image of the Albergo Diffuso has evolved positively, establishing itself as an original hospitality model esteemed for its authenticity, sustainability, and ability to offer a unique travel experience. It has transitioned from an alternative accommodation model to a genuine “travel philosophy.” The future of the AD appears promising, with new trends enriching the offer and consolidating its role in the sustainable tourism landscape, meeting the needs of modern travelers while contributing to the valorization of Italy’s historic villages.
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The Image of the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI)
The image of the ADI emerging from the press is that of a pioneering and authoritative organization within the fields of responsible tourism and village enhancement. Founded in 2006 by Giancarlo Dall’Ara—Professor of Tourism Marketing and creator of the Albergo Diffuso model—the Association serves as a benchmark for industry operators and travelers seeking authentic experiences.
The ADI’s role is defined by several key activities:
- Promotion and Protection of the Model: Spreading knowledge of the AD model globally through events, trade fairs, and media collaboration.
- Defining Quality Standards: Establishing specific criteria to ensure quality and authenticity, thereby protecting the brand and its core values.
- Training and Support: Providing professional development and networking opportunities for managers to exchange best practices.
- Creating a Network: Building a network of member properties across Italy and abroad that share the values of responsible and “diffuse” hospitality.
- Institutional Collaboration: Engaging with public and private institutions to promote policies supporting sustainable tourism. The ADI played a decisive role in advising Ministries, leading to dedicated funding for villages and Alberghi Diffusi across the country.
The ADI does not merely represent the interests of its members; it acts as a proactive driver of a new tourism development model based on sustainability, authenticity, and the empowerment of local communities.
Giancarlo Dall’Ara, Author of the “Albergo Diffuso” and President of the Association of Alberghi Diffusi
1 Understanding the Albergo Diffuso Model
1.1 What exactly is an Albergo Diffuso? (introductory slideshare)
http://www.slideshare.net/dallara/what-is-an-albergo-diffuso
2. Recent Interviews with Giancarlo Dall’Ara
A selection of recent interviews and features where Giancarlo Dall’Ara discusses the Albergo Diffuso model, its impact on villages and communities, and the work of the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI).
Il POST: Fare le vacanze in un borgo diventato un albergo
MONOCLE Sicily’s ‘scattered hotels’ offer new hope to the city’s hospitality industry
Sull’Appennino Romagnolo una famiglia tiene vivo un borgo con ristorante e albergo diffuso
PANORAMA: Gli alberghi Diffusi hanno un padre
How The Albergo Diffuso Model Is Transforming Sustainable Tourism
EL MUNDO: Pueblos fantasma convertidos en hotel, el invento italiano que triunfa en media Europa
2.1 From “Scattered Hotel” to “Living Like a Resident” – Core definitions and concepts
“How Alberghi Diffusi Turn Villages Into Hotels” – Smithsonian Magazine
Long feature on how “scattered hotels” transform entire villages into places to live, presenting Albergo Diffuso as a way to preserve heritage while creating sustainable tourism.
The New York Times – “Saving Towns by Filling Rooms in Italy”
Early international article that presents Albergo Diffuso as a model for rural revival and a way to bring life and visitors back to historic towns.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/23/travel/23journeys.html?_r=0
National Geographic Traveler – “The Towns Italy Forgot”
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/italy-hotels-traveler/
The Times / Sunday Times – Italian villages as new hotel hotspots
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/old-villages-become-new-hotspots-for-italian-hotels-8z93jsglw
Bloomberg – “Is Your Town Nearing Extinction? Try Turning It Into a Resort”
Explores Alberghi Diffusi from Italy to Japan as a solution for “near-extinction” villages, showing how the model can generate new income and attract visitors while keeping communities alive.
CNN – Features on hamlet hotels and spiritual hotels in Italy
Please note: Some older article links may no longer be accessible
http://edition.cnn.com/2014/11/18/travel/italy-hamlet-hotels/
http://edition.cnn.com/2015/01/02/travel/italy-spiritual-hotels/index.html?hpt=hp_c5
Click Booking – “The rise of scattered hotels”
https://click.booking.com/features/2018/11/20/the-rise-of-scattered-hotels/
Other English-language features
Albergo Diffuso: Architects Should Embrace Italy’s Decades-Old Design Concept
The albergo diffuso model is by no means a new concept. It was initially conceived in the late 1970s or early 1980s (an exact year cannot be pinpointed). Some attribute the model to the aftermath of the May 1976 earthquakes, when the idea was utilized to revitalize the impacted villages and was then later championed by Giancarlo Dall’Ara, a pioneering figure who is now-President of the Alberghi Diffusi National Association.
https://architizer.com/blog/inspiration/stories/alberghi-diffusi-italy-scattered-hotels/
Alberghi Diffusi Turn Villages Into Hotels
According to the International Alberghi Diffusi Association, only 150 are certified. For Dall’Ara, the critical characteristic of a “true” albergo diffuso is the combination of accommodation and small-town development.
https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2023/05/01/how-alberghi-diffusi-turn-villages-into-hotels/
How did The idea of scattered hotels start?
The idea of scattered hotels got its start in the early 1980s. Hotel marketing consultant Giancarlo Dall’Ara got the inspiration for scattered hotels while trying to revive tourism in an earthquake-damaged corner of northeastern Italy in the 1970s. Dall’Ara is still involved in the alberghi diffusi movement as the president of the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi. This is the organization that certifies new scattered hotels, and the group’s reach has spread beyond Italy. In 2018, for example, Dall’Ara traveled to Okayama, Japan to officially add the Yakageya Inn to the list of authentic scattered hotels.
Having an active organization promoting this unique vacation option is important because the requirements help authentic places stand out, even in a sea of other options.
https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/eco-tourism/stories/scattered-hotels-are-savings-historic-villages
The Guardian
http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jun/11/italy-alberghi-diffusi-village-hotels
The Sunday Times
http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/travel/weekends/Places_to_stay/article1356149.ece
Why Stay in a Hotel When You Can Stay in a Village?
When a Borough becomes an Hotel
http://www.thetrendscendent.com/index.php/albergo-diffuso-when-a-borough-becomes-a-hotel-2/
Travel+Leisure
In the 1980s, Italian hotel consultant Giancarlo Dall’Ara made a similar observation while wandering through towns in the Friuli region, in northeast Italy, which was devastated in 1976 by an earthquake.
Where others saw crumbling, desolate villages, Dall’Ara saw a missed opportunity. With a dual aim of preserving the heritage architecture and injecting new economy into the villages, he developed a tourism model: Albergo Diffuso (loosely meaning “scattered hotel”).
http://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/scattered-hotels-alberghi-diffusi#sextantio-italy
The Times
Now a fixture in Italy, alberghi diffusi seem to be a win-win: Former residents can lease empty properties for another income stream, and travelers experience village life first-hand. While the houses are peppered about town, there’s usually a central reception (which often doubles as the town tavern), and a mix of hotel-esque services.
“Alberghi Diffusi have incentivized young people to come back [from cities or abroad] to the villages and renovate their family homes, [which they can then lease out to the hotelier],” said Dall’Ara, the president of the Alberghi Diffusi National Association. “The sustainable concept also enables foreign travelers to come and “live” in the villages and get a feel for local life. The concept also contributes to the birth of new businesses and activities such as restaurants, artisan crafts, shops, B&Bs, tours.”
… set about transforming the grottoes on the Civita hill into “the project of his dreams”: an 18-room super-luxe albergo diffuso, or scattered hotel.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/travel/matera-basilicata-italy-s-rock-star-cxf9csfv5
This “diffused hotel” movement has played a big role in preserving ancient towns and structures, the businessman-conservationist told the Times, “Tourism screws up the identity of a place… The only way to solve this contradiction is to make sure you are obsessive about the identity of the place.”
https://www.dmarge.com/2019/02/ancient-italian-town.html
The New Daily
Looking for a more authentic Italian holiday? Forgo the big cities and chain hotels and tap into one of Italy’s best-kept accommodation secrets – the “alberghi diffusi”.
https://thenewdaily.com.au/life/travel/2017/12/08/italy-hidden-hotels/
Staying here is about experiencing the frugal beauty and simple life of a medieval village, with a few modern comforts thrown in. This is a “scattered hotel”, which means reception, restaurants and bedrooms occupy different ancient buildings restored with local materials and diligent historic accuracy. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/hotels/sextantio-albergo-diffuso-hotel/#
Albergo Diffuso: New Accommodation Style in Italy
https://umeseko.com/en/albergo-diffuso
The Wispread Hotels
http://www.italyculture.it/2007/03/01/the-%E2%80%9Cwidespread-hotels%E2%80%9D-a-new-way-to-go-on-holiday/
Live Like a Local in an Italian ‘Albergo Diffuso’
http://greenholidayitaly.com/2012/05/28/live-like-a-local-in-an-italian-albergo-diffuso/
Italy Pioneered the Idea of ‘Scattered Hotels’ — Here Are the 5 Best Ones to Book Around Europe
Twenty years ago, Italy began saving its villages by turning them into alberghi diffusi, or “scattered” hotels. Now the rest of Europe is following suit.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/alberghi-diffusi-europe-hotels-8349947
3. Sustainability, Regeneration and Responsible Tourism
Ecobnb, Greenplanner and sustainable travel blogs on Alberghi Diffusi
How The Albergo Diffuso Model Is Transforming Sustainable Tourism
http://ecobnb.com/blog/2015/01/alberghi-diffusi-ecotourism/
http://sustainabletourismworld.org/quebec-and-albergo-diffuso-english-version/
http://blog.italygreentravel.com/2015/01/alberghi-diffusi-ecotourism/
4. Reform Travel – “One of the world’s most sustainable hotel concepts”
TIME TO ADD another term to your “where should I stay” vocabulary: albergo diffuso. In Italian, it means “scattered hotels,” an idea hotel marketer Giancarlo Dall’Ara conceived in the early 1980s to preserve or revive small villages in Italy.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/airbnb-alternative-albergo-diffuso-6614ab74
The albergo diffuso model— in which abandoned apartments are turned into a scattered hotels is also making a headway probviding income for the towns as well as jobs for the locals. The brainchild of Giancarlo Dall’Ara, the scheme is providing popular in Puglia down in the heel of Southern Italy, wich has seen mass emigration over the past few decades. Julia Buckley “The Times of India” Feb 16, 2019
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/68018155.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
THE HOTEL DIFFUSO: A NOVEL ITALIAN HOTEL CONCEPT
Also called a “widespread” or “scattered” hotel, a “hotel diffuso” (albergo diffuso, in Italian) is the name given to a network of accommodations spread over a geographic area.
The concept of a hotel diffuso was born in Italy. After a 1976 earthquake in the town of Friuli, abandoned houses were renovated for this purpose with post-earthquake relief funds. This region still has the largest has the largest number of hotels diffusi.
First developed by Professor Dall’Ara (a tourism marketing professor), the concept has spread to other countries in Europe. In towns with historic centers, the novel model has transformed formerly deserted or unused buildings to make them habitable and economically viable. It also helps overcome community resistance to the creation of new accommodations in popular tourist areas.
https://gettingontravel.com/what-is-a-hotel-diffuso/
3.3 Articles on saving ghost towns and rural regeneration (Italy, Switzerland, Croatia, etc.)
L’Italia dei borghi, viaggio tra gli alberghi diffusi più suggestivi del Bel Paese
https://tg24.sky.it/lifestyle/2023/09/30/migliori-alberghi-diffusi-borghi-italia#24
http://www.worshipblues.com/2013/08/cave-dwelling.html#.UhSKCJJM98E
Albergo Diffuso Borgo dei Gatti, Golferenzo
http://www.nileguide.com/blog/2010/05/26/italian-ghost-towns-lead-to-dispersed-hotel-concepts/
Albergo Diffuso Italija
Napuštena sela i gradovi sa srednjovekovnom arhitekturom u Italiji mogu ponovo biti u žiži javnosti kao spasonosna formula savršenih hotela u doba krize. Italijanima je takav koncept i turistički proizvod pod imenom Albergo Diffuso već poznat, što se može videti u primeru mesta Matera.
https://tumagazin.rs/2023/02/14/matera-albergo-diffuso-italija/
When an entire village becomes a hotel
http://blog.greenpearls.com/en/diffused-hotel-relais-del-maro-liguria/
https://www.vanityfair.it/gallery/hotel-in-liguria-dove-dormire-al-mare
4. Albergo Diffuso Around the World
4.1 Switzerland and Central Europe – Corippo, Kruja and other village hotels
From Italy to Croatia, Switzerland, Tasmania, the U.S. and even the Himalayas, various iterations of scattered hotel concepts have since sprung up around the world. These countryside cabins, beachfront dwellings, and heritage village homes showcase a new type of luxury.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/scattered-hotels-alberghi-diffusi
Corippo: The Smallest Village In Switzerland
After the thrill of jumping into the void, we took the bus to Corippo, one of the smallest villages in Switzerland, recently transformed into an Albergo Diffuso (a scattered hotel).
Wenn ein ganzes Dorf zum Hotel wird
Manch abgelegene Dörfer in Italien mutierten durch Abwanderung zu Geisterorten. In einige hingegen kehrte neues Leben ein: Sie wurden zu „Alberghi Diffusi“ – mit über den Ort verstreuten Zimmern. Die Schweiz hat das ungewöhnliche Konzept übernommen und baut es weiter aus.
Ubytování na dovolené jinak. U albergo diffuso je hotelem celé město
“A Kruja, città storica dell’Albania, è nato il primo albergo diffuso del Paese balcanico. Case tradizionali, camere arredate secondo lo stile locale, abitanti del borgo come vicini di stanza. Vi portiamo alla scoperta di questo modello di turismo sostenibile nel cuore della Terra delle aquile.”
Belgio
Il décrit son projet de l’Albergo Diffuso comme son « chemin de Damas »:
http://press.designhotels.com/docs/belgium_bthere_sextantio_albergo_diffuso_0412_0.pdf
Olanda
http://www.desmaakvanitalie.nl/alberghi-diffusi/
http://ciaotutti.nl/op-vakantie-in-italie/logeren-in-een-albergo-diffuso/
http://ciaotutti.nl/reizen-door-italie/toscane/raggiolo-een-versteend-bergdorpje-waar-alles-ophoudt-en-begint/
http://www.dolcevia.com/nl/italie-reizen/hotels-a-resorts/2132-alberghi-diffusi-in-italie
http://italiaslowtour.com/alberghi-diffusi/
Grecia
http://www.newsbeast.gr/travel/uniquehotels/arthro/655646/ta-100-monadika-xenodoheia/
Serbia
4.2 Spain and Portugal – “Mi hotel es un pueblo” and related features
Pueblos fantasma convertidos en hotel, el invento italiano que triunfa en media Europa
https://www.elmundo.es/viajes/europa/2023/11/30/654a375fe85ece2d198b45c6.html
Mi hotel es un Pueblo
http://albergo-diffuso.blogspot.it/2012/06/el-albergo-diffuso-un-modelo-italiano.html
http://albergo-diffuso.blogspot.it/2012/06/el-albergo-diffuso-un-modelo-italiano.html
http://www.haciendas-espana.com/es/wine-village-durius.php
http://www.hosteltur.com/168550_futuro-turistico-aldeas-abandonadas-espana.html
http://labiciazul.blogspot.com.es/2013/05/hoy-compartimos-un-lugar-donde-perderse.html
http://participacionruralviva.ning.com/profiles/blogs/nebrodi-albergo-diffuso-emoturismo-en-sicilia
http://www.etselquemenges.cat/especialista/johhnys-way/la-ruta-del-sargantino
Portugal
http://post-italy.com/sextantio-albergo-diffuso-italia/
4.3 Brazil, Mexico and Latin America – Immersion and authentic luxury
Brazil
E’ como se você tivesse não só a chance de morar em uma cidade italiana, mesmo que por poucos dias, mas também de conhecer os seus residentes, experimentar os sabores e perfumes locais, arriscar falar algumas palavras na língua local, além de vivenciar uma experiência única. O melhor de tudo é que o “albergo diffuso” consegue aliar a comodidade do hotel convencional com a liberdade de hospedar-se em uma casa italiana e, assim, descobrir pessoalmente a cultura e a história do lugar visitado
A tendência de turismo que propõe imersão luxuosa no passado
https://veja.abril.com.br/mundo/a-tendencia-de-turismo-que-propoe-imersao-luxuosa-no-passado/
Mexico
El lujo de lo auténtico
En este lugar único se ubica uno de los Alberghi Diffusi más originales: Munta e Cara
http://glup.fishers.com.mx/trip-and-hip/422
Alberghi Diffusi. Estas palabras italianas indican una forma totalmente nueva de viajar. Barbara Ainis
http://albergo-diffuso.blogspot.it/2012/04/anche-in-messico-piace-la-formula.html
4.4 Canada – Policy and tourism development perspectives
L’albergo diffuso est un type d’hébergement qui offre les services d’un hôtel traditionnel dans une structure qui s’apparente à la location de propriété privée. Une des particularités de ce concept italien est sa structure horizontale, qui subdivise les services hôteliers en plusieurs bâtiments. Par exemple, alors que les chambres et appartements peuvent se trouver sur différentes rues d’un quartier, la réception peut se situer dans un lieu X, le restaurant dans un lieu Y (Amelie Racine)
1) http://albergo-diffuso.blogspot.it/2012/07/lad-piace-anche-in-canada-un-articolo.html
2) http://veilletourisme.ca/2012/01/12/albergo-diffuso-pour-developper-loffre-dhebergement-autrement/
http://sustainabletourismworld.org/quebec-and-albergo-diffuso-english-version/
5. India, Indonesia and other Asian markets
India
The albergo diffuso model— in which abandoned apartments are turned into a scattered hotels is also making a headway probviding income for the towns as well as jobs for the locals. The brainchild of Giancarlo Dall’Ara, the scheme is providing popular in Puglia down in the heel of Southern Italy, wich has seen mass emigration over the past few decades. Julia Buckley “The Times of India” Feb 16, 2019
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/68018155.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
Indonesia
5 Focus on Key Case Studies
5.1 Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Sextantio
Beautiful Abruzzo
http://romeifyouwantto.com/beautiful-abruzzo-and-santo-stefano-di-sessanio/
http://luxatic.com/the-splendid-sextantio-albergo-diffuso-in-abruzzo/
http://www.abraxon-lifestyle.com/reportagen-portr%C3%A4ts-1/albergo-diffuso-italien/
http://www.btheremag.com/features/2012/04/hilltop-crusade
http://www.london-unattached.com/2013/06/santo-stefano-di-sessanio-albergo-diffuso-sextantio/
5.2 Matera and Le Grotte della Civita
Le Grotte della Civita
http://www.heyne-living.de/2013/11/19/werden-sie-hohlenmensch-im-suden-italiens/
http://blog.bradajohnson.net/2010/10/20/feature-article-la-dolce-grotta-matera/
5.3 Other iconic Alberghi Diffusi (AD Vecchio convento, Romagna diffusa, Sicily etc.)
Albergo Diffuso Al Vecchio Convento, Portico di Romagna
Path to paradise in the Appenines foothills
#Romagnadiffusa
http://travelingwithsweeney.com/?s=alberghi+diffusi&searchsubmit=
http://www.secretitaly.it/alberghi-diffusi-almost-like-home/
http://travelingwithsweeney.com/2013/07/05/family-portico-di-romagna/
Sicily’s ‘scattered hotels’ offer new hope to the city’s hospitality industry
Umírající vesnička spěla k zániku. Švýcaři ji zachránili po italsku
Na samotném pokraji vylidnění již existovalo jediné řešení: udělat z Corippa jakýsi skanzen, který bude fungovat jako autentický hotelový komplex pro zvídavé turisty. Tedy zachránit ji konceptem Albergo Diffuso, kterým už Italové zachránili na čtyři desítky historických vesniček, jež spěly k zániku.
6 German-Language Coverage
6.1 Major newspapers and magazines (Die Welt, Die Zeit, Süddeutsche Zeitung, etc.)
Ein ganzes Dorf wird zum Hotel
Die Zeit http://www.zeit.de/2015/30/friaul-tourimus-verwandelt-italien
Suddeutsche Zeitung “Verstreut im Urlaub Das ganze Dorf ist das Hotel: In abgelegenen Orten Italiens leben die Gäste Tür an Tür mit den Einheimischen”
Kleine Welt ganz Gross
http://www.denkwerkzukunft.de/index.php/inspiration/index/Albergo%20Diffuso
http://www.giancarlodallara.com/suddeutsche-ad.pdf
Die Welt
http://www.welt.de/reise/nah/article126323419/Urlaub-in-einem-romantischen-Hoteldorf.html
Im Ferienhof, Süddeutsche Zeitung
In Italien gibt es Hotels, die über einen ganzen Ort verstreut sind – und ihn so wieder zum Leben erwecken.
VON LARS REICHARDT http://sz-magazin.sueddeutsche.de/texte/anzeigen/43435/Im-Ferienhof
Im Feriendorf
In Italien gibt es Hotels, die über einen ganzen Ort verstreut sind – und ihn so wieder zum Leben erwecken.
Giancarlo Dall’Ara, ein gelernter Hotelmanager und mittlerweile der Verbandspräsident, hat das Konzept der Alberghi diffusi in den Achtzigerjahren erfunden. Zu Beginn war das Misstrauen der Gemeinden, Hausbesitzer und Urlaubsgäste groß, auch die juristische Umsetzung fiel schwer. Erst 1998 entstand auf Sardinien eine Musterregelung, wie mehrere gleichberechtigte Eigentümer eines einzigen Hotels rechtlich am besten agieren können. Einige Gemeinden in Kroatien und Slowenien versuchen heute, sein Modell zu kopieren. Dall’Ara ist ein höflicher Mann Mitte sechzig und er sagt, dass die Resortdörfer von TUI und Relais & Châteaux nichts mit seiner ursprünglichen Idee zu tun hätten: »In einem Dorf, wo es keine Einwohner mehr gibt, können keine Alberghi diffusi entstehen, die das Lebensgefühl des Dorfes vermitteln: In einem unbewohnten Dorf gibt es kein Leben mehr.
https://sz-magazin.sueddeutsche.de/reise/im-feriendorf-81566
Financial Times Deutschland “Umbewohntes Dorf zu verkaufen”
http://www.giancarlodallara.com/ftd-2-5-2011.gif
Wo das ganze Dorf ein Hotel ist
https://www.brigitte.de/service/brigitte-heftvorschau-10326058.html
Eine Zeitreise in die Vergangenheit: Das Albergo Diffuso Torre del Nera (Scheggino, Umbria)
Urlaub wie die Einheimischen
Man will unterwegs das essen, was auch die Einheimischen bestellen, und nicht ein eigens kreiertes Touristen-Menü“, sagt Giancarlo Dall’Ara. Das liegt im Trend: 91 Prozent der Kunden der Buchungsplattform Airbnb wollten auf ihren Reisen leben wie Einheimische, verkündet der Konzern, der sich selbst preist als „globale Community, die magische Rei- seerlebnisse anbietet“. Doch der Online-Marktplatz für Un- terkünfte löst das nur selten ein. „Oft trifft man nicht mal bei der Schlüsselübergabe den Vermieter der Unterkunft“, kriti- siert Dall’Ara. Airbnb und andere Portale stehen in der Kritik, weil in immer mehr Städten die Einheimischen unter dem Zu- strom von Touristen leiden. Mieten steigen, viele Wohnun- gen werden überhaupt nicht mehr langfristig vermietet. Unicht Teil dieses Problems zu sein, gebe es keine Alberghi Dif- fusi in größeren Städten. „Dort würde das Konzept ohnehin nicht funktionieren: Es fehlt die Atmosphäre.“
KONZEPT GEGEN LEERSTAND
Exportiert aber wird die Idee durchaus: Jüngst wurden im ja- panischen Pilgerort Yakage alte Häuschen aus der Edo-Zeit in Unterkünfte umgewandelt, und Giancarlo Dall’Ara hat für neue Alberghi-Diffusi-Projekte China im Blick. Vielleicht gibt es bald auch ein Albergo Diffuso in Deutschland. Im frän- kischen 2400-Einwohner-Ort Mainbernheim überlegt man, ob die Idee ein Konzept sein könnte gegen den Leerstand in der Innenstadt. Charme hat das historische Markgrafenstädt- chen. Jetzt braucht es nur noch einen Prinzen, der das Dorn- röschen wachküsst
https://enorm-magazin.de/urlaub-wie-die-einheimischen
Der Reiseveranstalter Dertour besondere Unterkünfte in sein Programm aufgenommen: Bei den sogenannten #AlberghiDiffusi handelt es sich um verstreute Herbergen deren Zimmer auf ortstypische Häuser kleiner Dörfer verteilt sind https://www.travel4news.at/138803/die-entdeckung-der-lentezza-slow-tourism-in-italien/
http://www.enit.de/reisethemen/nachhaltiges-reisen.html
Touristik Aktuell
http://www.giancarlodallara.com/touristik-aktuell-albergo-diffuso.pdf
“Sie mögen keine Hotels? Keine Hochhäuser? Dann probieren sie es mit einem “verstreuten Hotel”
http://www.scoop.it/t/ospitalita-diffusa/p/2181618690/alberghi-diffusi-a-case-study
Mehr wohnen als reisen: die Alberghi Diffusi
http://www.classicdriver.com/de/magazine/3800.asp?id=8469
Viele alte Dörfer Italiens, oft bildschön, wurden Opfer der Landflucht: Die Menschen zogen fort, auf der Suche nach einem einträglichen Leben und neuen Möglichkeiten. Solche Möglichkeiten in den Dörfern selbst zu schaffen und diese in Verbindung mit nachhaltigem Tourismus wieder aufleben zu lassen war die Idee von Professor Giancarlo dall‘ Ara, einem italienweit erfolgreichen Tourismusberater und Hotelfachmann. Auslöser dafür war das schwere Erdbeben 1976 im Friaul und die Frage, wie entvölkerten Ortschaften neues Leben eingehaucht werden könnte.
http://www.denkwerkzukunft.de/index.php/inspiration/index/Albergo%20Diffuso
Der Deutsche Tourismuspreis2015 ging an die Hochschwarzwald Tourismus GmbH. Sie unterstützt Inhaber von Ferienwohnungen, ältere Unterkünfte als “Kuckucksnester” zu modernisieren. Das sind schicke Appartements im regionalen Stil, gestaltet mit regionalen Naturmaterialien von Dienstleistern aus der Region.
Auch die “Alberghi Diffusi” in Italien verbinden Tourismus mit Kulturerhalt und regionaler Entwicklung. Die Idee: Das ganze Dorf ist das Hotel. Historische Stätten werden mit kleinsten Veränderungen bewohnbar gemacht, sodass alle Originalstrukturen erhalten bleiben.
Gli Alberghi Diffusi e il mercato tedesco https://viaggiandosimpara.org/2014/12/17/gli-alberghi-diffusi-italiani-ed-il-mercato-turistico-tedesco/
TOURISTEN RETTEN VERLASSENE DÖRFER
Ohne Zukunft, aber wunderschön: Italiens Bergdörfer werden immer leerer, die Jugend zieht in die Städte. Die Rettung dieser Orte: Die Touristen.
Un articolo del 2017
https://www.travelnews.ch/tourismuswelt/6185-touristen-retten-verlassene-doerfer.html
»Alberghi Diffusi« – ein Erfolgsmodell, das Leute im Ort hält und Touristen anzieht
https://www.nd-aktuell.de/artikel/1173210.reise-hotels-ein-ganzes-dorf-wird-zum-hotel.html
6.2 TV features and documentaries
Faire Ferien https://www.zdf.de/gesellschaft/plan-b/plan-b-faire-ferien-100.html#xtor=CS5-21
http://www.dw.de/urlaub-wie-im-mittelalter/av-17788821
7 France – “Hôtels horizontaux” and new forms of hospitality
Hotel horizontaux pour decouvrir l’Italie:
L’ambition de l’hotel diffus
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B0IE101CiUQuNTQxNTE4NzgtYjlkYS00ZjFlLThmNjgtMjlkZTY5NjdhMzZj/edit?pli=1 = PRESENTE DUE VOLTE
http://albergo-diffuso.blogspot.it/2012/05/albergo-diffuso-une-nouvelle-forme.html
9. Asian Perspectives (Japan and China)
9.1 The most recent book on the Albergo Diffuso published in Japan
書名： 『アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ』
著者： 渡邉 康、加太 絵理
出版社： 風詠社
出版年： 2025年
「カルニア地方の山岳地帯に位置するコメリアンス村は、1976年のフリウリ地震で甚大な被害を受けました。多くの家屋が損壊し、復興は進んだものの、若者の流出により村は空洞化の危機に瀕していました。こうした状況の中で、詩人レオナルド・ザニエールは画期的な直感を得ました。彼は新しい大型ホテルを建設するのではなく、地震後に空き家となった家々を修復・活用して観光客を受け入れることを提案したのです。
しかし、ザニエールのアイデアを具体的な事業として現実のものとしたのは、ジャンカルロ・ダッラーラ教授との出会いでした。彼は長年大学教授を務めた観光マーケティングの専門家です。ダッラーラ教授はザニエールの直感を理論化・体系化し、それを真の『経営モデル』へと進化させました。彼の貢献がなければ、アルベルゴ・ディッフーゾは、今日イタリア全土や海外に広まっているような、成文化された宿泊システムにはならなかったでしょう。」
9 .2 Japan – Articles, conferences and projects inspired by the Albergo Diffuso
アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ協会ダッラーラ会長が語る「分散型ホテルの可能性」
日本ファームステイ協会（JPCSA）は日伊国際農泊シンポジウムを開き、イタリアのアルベルゴ・ディフーゾ協会のジャンカルロ・ダッラーラ会長がアルベルゴ・ディフーゾの理念や日本での可能性について語った。
Giancarlo Dall’Ara●イタリアでホテル支配人や地域活性化コンサルタント、国立ベルージャ大学教授などを務めた。1980年代にアルベルゴ・ディフーゾのビジネスモデルを提唱し、06年初めには同協会を設立した。
https://www.tjnet.co.jp/2019/12/02/アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ協会のダッラーラ会長が/
「アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ」とは、アルベルゴ＝宿、ディフーゾ＝散らばっているという意味で、直訳すると「散在する宿」です。一般的なホテルが、1つの建物でサービスを提供するのに対し、アルベルゴ・ディフーゾは、集落内の複数の建物を利用します。
まるでその街で生活しているかのように地域にある商店で買い物をし、地元の人が集まるお店で食事し、そして地元の人との交流を楽しむ。その土地の生活を実感しながら滞在してもらう取り組みです。
https://biei-act.jp/business/albergo-diffuso01.html
1980年代初めにGiancarlo Dall’Ara教授が提唱した廃村の危機にあるイタリアの小さな美しい村々に”再び息吹を”という伝統集落再生の試み。数世紀に渡り、主のいなかった邸宅や住居などを、村の伝統やその歴史的背景に惹かれたオーナー自らが意匠に関わり”ホテル”として蘇らせています。
https://www.akiyakanrishi.org/archives/946
震災復興の資金として地域に割り当てられた予算をどう使うかを決める会議の場で、観光マーケティング学者だったGiancarlo Dall’Araの案で、あるじを失った空き家を客室とし、村全体をアコモデーション施設とする、地域再生計画が採用された。のちのアルベルゴ・ディフーゾとなったのは言うまでもない。
https://tabi-labo.com/279426/albergodiffuso
アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ（以下AD）
ADは、1980年代、地震で崩壊した北イタリアの小さな村を復興するためのプロジェクトの一環として始まったが、現在ではイタリア、欧州を始め世界各国で過疎化に悩む町や村の救済策として熱い視線を浴びている。アルベルゴはイタリア語で「宿」、ディフーゾは「分散」、ADは文字通り「分散型の宿」という意味である。下図のように町全体でホテルの機能を構成する分散型ホテルシステムであり、そこに歴史的なバックグラウンドを加えて、その土地に根付く歴史、文化、人の営みを、観光資源化する点がポイントである
https://www.yafo.or.jp/2019/04/26/11103/
名前だけは知っていたものの、アルベルゴ・ディフーゾの実態がよくわかっていなかった私は、思い切ってこのADの発案者で、アルベルゴ・ディフーゾ協会の会長であるジャンカルロ・ダッラーラ教授に教えを請うた。快く面会を受けてくださったダッラーラ教授は、開口一番、こう言った。
「ADの本質は、”持続可能である”ということにあります。小さな田舎町の過疎化はイタリアだけに留まらず、今や世界各地で同時進行している問題ですが、これを食い止める鍵は、それぞれの土地で”持続可能な経済”を生み出すことにあるのです」。観光マーケティングを専門とする経済学者でもあるダッラーラ教授は、「空き家が10軒ある村なら、ADを始められる」と言う。実際、イタリア各地の集落では、空き家を利用してADを始めようという動きが活発になっている。しかしながら、成功例は少ないのだそうだ。
「 ADをB&Bや短期貸しアパートと勘違いしている人が非常に多いのです。しかし、空き家の鍵を渡すだけではADは成功しません。ただ単に、村の各地に宿を分散させるだけでは人々は集まってこないし、そこに経済を生み出すことはできません。ADを成功させるには、それを運営する人の情熱やスキルが必要不可欠です。観光業、ホテル業、ホスピタリティの最低限のスキルを身につけ、なおかつその土地を心から愛している人でなければADを成功させることはできないでしょう」。
http://tabilista.com/＃14-イタリアの過疎の集落を蘇らせた「アルベル/
Albergo＝ホテル Diffuso=拡散した、散乱した
→「分散型ホテル」
イタリアで生まれたこの言葉は、日本では一般的に「分散型ホテル」と訳されています。文字通り、複数の建物に分散した構造をとる宿泊施設です。
いつどうやって生まれたのか？
この言葉自体は、1970年に起こったイタリア北東部の地震により被害を受けた村を再び活性化させる取り組みに由来します。それが、1980年代にイタリアの風土地形とホスピタリティを活かした観光マーケティングの一つのモデル（長い(笑)）としてGiancarlo Dall’Ara氏によって提唱され、イタリアだけでなく世界中にも広がりを見せている観光ビジネスです。
https://note.com/honote/n/n5cab5fe11bb6
Gli alberghi Diffusi promossi in Giappone
https://www.tutta-italia.com/adi2017/
Yakage-ya
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO31774240U8A610C1LC0000/
https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASL6D4519L6DPPZB00K.html
Borgo Sempronio, Vecchio Convento &Co
http://www.arch.cit.nihon-u.ac.jp/column/2018/12/18/001505.html
Borgo dei Corsi
https://www.travel.co.jp/guide/article/34739/
Borgo di Castelvetere
https://umeseko.com/albergo-diffuso
http://hosei-archi-ob.sakura.ne.jp/event/20160620/nakahashi.pdf
Tour in Sardegna negli Alberghi Diffusi
http://www.hosei-archi-ob.sakura.ne.jp/essay/078/no078.html
Muntaecara, Monopoli, Crispolti, Sextantio e altri AD
【アルベルゴ ディフーゾ】
1980年代前半にイタリアで誕生した画期的なおもてなしの形です。観光客がなかなか訪れないイタリアの歴史ある小規模な村や町を活性化し、それによって観光客を呼び込み、人口の減少を防ぐことを目的として生まれ、現在もイタリアの魅力あふれる村々の維持と活性化に貢献し続けています。従来のホテルやアパートメントが1ヶ所の建物で完結するのに対し、アルベルゴ ディフーゾの部屋は村中に分散しており、小さなコミュニティに存在する様々な歴史ある建物を改造したもののため、古代建築に興味がある方やローカルの気分を味わいたい方におススメな施設です。
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000052.000015916.html
Le case antiche di Verucchio (video)
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/zipangu/backnumber/20150105/
Il canto del maggio
http://rinetta1017.hatenablog.com/entry/2017/01/17/221340
9.3 Chinese media – “Scattered hotel” as a model for village regeneration
“分散式酒店是一个意大利发展模式，就是为了拯救越来越多的意大利小村在居民搬到城市居住后留下的空置房屋而创立的。”说这番话的是这个概念的创造者吉安卡洛•达尔莱拉（Giancarlo Dall’ Ara）。
Please note: Some older article links may no longer be accessible.
虽然今天中国的乡建和民宿火热异常，但早在20世纪80年代，意大利人Giancarlo Dall’Ara就提出了Albergo Diffuso的概念，中文意思是“散布的旅馆”。这一模式是在欧洲战后城市高密度发展的背景下，为了保护、延续大量被人们遗忘和抛弃的历史村落而提出的解决方案。和今天的中国一样，在城市化和老龄化的社会背景下，许多拥有深厚历史传统的欧洲乡镇都因缺乏人口活力和经济活动而被逐渐荒废。所以Albergo Diffuso是一个试图将城市商业价值与地方文化保护相结合的一种创新模式。
http://www.sohu.com/a/318673989_737538
http://www.yoka.com/dna/d/122/489.html
“分散式酒店是一个意大利发展模式，就是为了拯救越来越多的意大利小村在居民搬到城市居住后留下的空置房屋而创立的。”说这番话的是这个概念的创造 者吉安卡洛·达尔莱拉（Giancarlo Dall’ Ara）。在我马泰拉之行前夕的这次交谈中，他说：“这种情况在意大利数以百计的遗弃村庄里都存在。”达尔莱拉的创想是：将这些村庄重新打造成一种拥有集 中管理的不规则的客房，提供客房服务、餐厅和门房等酒店服务内容。宾客成为社区的一部分，甚至在有些时候就是社区本身。“对于那些不大喜欢住在酒店的人来 说，这是个好选择。”他说。同样重要的还有：尽可能保留当地原汁原味的感觉。
https://www.huoche.net/show_246828/
“分散式酒店是一个意大利发展模式，就是为了拯救越来越多的意大利小村在居民搬到城市居住后留下的空置房屋而创立的。”说这番话的是这个概念的创造者吉安卡洛•达尔莱拉（Giancarlo Dall’ Ara）。
“分散式酒店是一个意大利发展模式，就是为了拯救越来越多的意大利小村在居民搬到城市居住后留下的空置房屋而创立的。”说这番话的是这个概念的创造者吉安卡洛•达尔莱拉（Giancarlo Dall’ Ara）。
http://www.sohu.com/a/316515981_179557
9. Institutional recognition and awards (World Travel Market Global Award, etc.)
World Travel Market – Italy’s National Association Of ‘Alberghi Diffusi’ Wins Prestigious World Travel Market Global Award
http://www.wtmlondon.com/page.cfm/Action=press/libID=1/listID=1/libEntryID=63
10 Videos and TV Features
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mhV2AVzv70&feature=youtu.be
11. Australia, Russia, Georgia, Ucraina …
Australia
Russia
http://vk.com/wall-43501510_888
http://italiareport.com/2015/06/18/самые-необычные-отели-италии/
Georgia
Ucraina
http://gazeta.ua/ru/articles/life/_top-10-samyh-udivitelnyh-vannyh-komnat/510335
Med mottot att det mest hållbara är att använda det som redan finns, väcker det italienska hotellkonceptet Albergo diffuso liv i gamla italienska hus och byar med hjälp av turismen.
https://reformtravel.se/albergo-diffuso-varldens-mest-hallbara-hotellkoncept/ Reform Travel
12. Additional Articles, Blogs and Resources (Pdf)
Hirado AD Town
NHK https://www3.nhk.or.jp/lnews/nagasaki/20250602/5030024173.html
https://news.goo.ne.jp/article/nagasaki/region/nagasaki-20250602124130
https://www.nagasaki-np.co.jp/kijis/?kijiid=988ef714b70745dcbfbd446df1fc4e5c
A new formula for your vacation:
http://brandituptravel.wordpress.com/2013/11/04/alberghi-diffusi-tourism-evolution-starts-in-italy/
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/2019/01/02/dispersed-hotel-trend/
http://www.cntraveler.com/story/italys-new-scattered-hotel-trend-maysave-its-historic-towns
http://albergodiffuso.wordpress.com/2012/08/01/separated-hotels/
Wired to the World
http://www.wired2theworld.com/2014/03/30/il-sextantio-hotel-sleeping-in-a-cave-in-matera-italy/
When the Hotel is the Town: Albergo Diffuso in Italy
http://www.italylogue.com/accommodation/when-the-hotel-is-the-town-albergo-diffuso-in-italy.html
http://www.budgettravel.com/feature/the-town-that-became-a-hotel,1817/
Un articolo di Amy E. Robertson
http://brandituptravel.com/2013/11/04/alberghi-diffusi-tourism-evolution-starts-in-italy/
http://www.dailyslow.it/borgo-santangelo-lalbergo-diffuso-di-gualdo-tadino-perugia/
http://www.nxtbook.com/fx/detection/dbgetflash.php?id=a0df70150e4305b9a5f451b2c285d7c9
Additional resources: selected press review (PDF)
For readers who need a compact, ready-to-print overview, we have prepared a short selection of articles on Alberghi Diffusi published in Italian and international media up to 2023. This PDF Booklet 20 anni di alberghi diffusi can be used as background material for presentations, training courses and research on the Albergo Diffuso model.
For media enquiries, further case studies or updated data on the Albergo Diffuso model, please contact the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (ADI), or giancarlo.dallara@gmail.com