A directory of belonging
Places where community is built into where you live — not another club to visit, but somewhere the people around you are part of daily life. Monasteries that welcome guests, cohousing, co-ops, ecovillages, seniors villages, and neighbourhoods that actually function. Start where you are.
Compiled with AI, checked by nobody yet. These are starting points, gathered for Abruzzo — real places as far as we know, but details change. Verify with a phone call before you set your heart or drive across the state.
Il Samaritano provides a residential community for individuals seeking support and rehabilitation. It offers a structured environment focused on personal development and mutual aid.
This therapeutic community offers a supportive residential environment for individuals on a recovery path. It focuses on shared living, personal growth, and reintegration into society.
A developing cohousing initiative in L'Aquila, focusing on shared spaces and mutual support among residents. It's designed for people looking for a balance between private living and active community engagement.
An emerging cohousing project in Teramo, aiming to create a collaborative living environment with shared facilities and community activities. It's suitable for individuals and families desiring a more connected way of life.
A developing interest group for cohousing in Vasto, aiming to create a collaborative living space with shared amenities and a strong community focus. It's suitable for individuals and families looking to actively shape their living environment.
With the reconstruction efforts, new coliving options are emerging in L'Aquila, catering to students and professionals seeking shared living with community aspects. These spaces often include shared workspaces and social events.
Modern coliving spaces are starting to appear in urban centers like Pescara, offering furnished rooms with shared common areas and a focus on community events. These are ideal for young professionals or digital nomads seeking social interaction and convenience.
While in Emilia-Romagna, this well-established ecovillage is a significant example of sustainable living and community, offering workshops and welcoming visitors for immersive experiences. It's a model for those interested in ecological and communal lifestyles, close enough to be considered.
Visit website →This emerging ecovillage project aims to create a sustainable community focused on ecological living, shared resources, and social connection. It welcomes individuals and families interested in contributing to a greener, more communal lifestyle.
This community focuses on shared values of social justice and mutual support, engaging in local activism and cultural initiatives. Members often live in close proximity, fostering a strong sense of belonging and collective action.
Nomadelfia is a community of families and celibate men and women who strive to live the Gospel. They share goods, raise children, and work together for a common purpose.
Visit website →While not a residential community in the traditional sense, the Community of Sant'Egidio offers a strong intentional community life for its members, often involving shared living arrangements and dedicated service to the poor. They welcome individuals committed to their spiritual and social mission.
Visit website →This ancient monastery provides a serene environment for spiritual reflection and communal living for its resident monks. It offers a unique opportunity for guests to experience a contemplative lifestyle within a historical setting.
This historic monastery, now managed by a lay association, occasionally hosts cultural events and offers a serene environment. While not a full-time residential monastery, it provides opportunities for community engagement and spiritual reflection in a beautiful setting.
While technically just outside Abruzzo in Umbria, this Benedictine monastery is very close and well-known for welcoming male guests for spiritual retreats and longer stays, offering a life of prayer and manual labor. It provides a structured community environment for those seeking peace and spiritual growth.
Visit website →This Clarisse monastery in Sulmona offers a contemplative environment and may welcome female guests for short spiritual stays or retreats. It provides a peaceful setting for reflection within a religious community.
This historic fortified village encourages a strong sense of belonging among its inhabitants, who share a commitment to their heritage and local life. Community events and traditions are central to daily living.
Visit website →This small, historic village is known for its strong local community and traditional Italian village life, where neighbors often know and support each other. It's an ideal place for those seeking integration into an existing, close-knit rural community.
This beautifully restored medieval village operates as an 'albergo diffuso' (scattered hotel) but fosters a strong sense of local community among its permanent residents and long-term visitors. It's a unique option for those seeking to live within a historic, close-knit village environment.
Visit website →Known as one of Italy's most beautiful villages, Scanno maintains a vibrant community spirit with strong local traditions and close-knit social ties. Residents actively participate in preserving its unique cultural heritage.
Visit website →This charming medieval village fosters a strong sense of community among its residents, preserving traditions and promoting local events. Life here is deeply connected to the historical fabric and natural beauty of the area.
Visit website →Borgo Universo is a unique village transformed by street art and astronomical themes, fostering a vibrant cultural community. Residents and visitors alike engage in shared events and appreciate the artistic revitalization of their living space.
Visit website →Avezzano's local council supports various community initiatives and associations that foster social cohesion and provide opportunities for residents to connect. It's a good place to explore local clubs and volunteer opportunities to build community.
Visit website →The city of Chieti, through its social services and cultural departments, supports numerous local initiatives and community centers that encourage resident interaction and support. It's a good option for those looking to engage with local community programs.
Visit website →The municipality of Ortona actively promotes various social and cultural programs, fostering a strong sense of community among its residents. Its community centers and initiatives provide opportunities for connection and participation.
Visit website →The municipality of Sulmona actively promotes social housing projects and community-building initiatives within its urban fabric. These programs aim to create supportive living environments and strengthen neighborhood ties for residents.
This mountain community offers various programs aimed at preserving local traditions and fostering social cohesion among its residents. It encourages shared activities and mutual support within the picturesque Sirente-Velino Regional Park.
The other path
If your state's list is thin, that's not a dead end; it's the reason this project exists. Three friends on one street is already a community. The guide walks you through the whole path.
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