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What happened? The municipality of Gambarogno in the southern Swiss canton of Ticino has decided to sell traditional rustic houses (rustici) for just one Swiss franc. Previously, these buildings used to serve as stables that have been transformed into fancy stone holiday homes.
Context. While traditional tourist destinations, including popular ski resorts in the Swiss mountains, have faced a lack of tourists over the past two years, the canton of Ticino has thrived thanks to locals coming here on vacation. Since the village of Gambarogno is in a remote place, it has beут decaying after the outflow of residents. The Council of the municipality (Gemeinde) hopes that putting these houses on sale for one franc will help to restore the village and bring back visitors.
Conditions. Those wishing to purchase real estate at a token cost, become responsible for renovation in a traditional rustic style. As Gianluigi Della Santa told the Swiss broadcaster SRF, mayor of the village, the administration will only consider applications of candidates who show interest in learning Italian and integrating into local life.
Quote. "Anyone who buys a village property for one franc should be interested in the history of this place. That is not for people who want a home to relax in the sun," Della Santa stressed.
Source: I am Expat
Photo: I am Expat
